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Physics

This guide will introduce you to resources you can use when researching in physics.

Why use articles?

Journal article front pagesAcademic articles are good resources because:

  • They provide information about specific and recent topics
  • They include bibliographies to refer you to additional information
  • Many articles are scholarly or peer-reviewed, meaning they have been critically reviewed by experts to ensure they are of highest quality and especially suitable for academic resources.

Image from George Mason University, Guide on the Side.

Peer Review

Databases

See Databases A-Z to search for databases. Most databases are paid for by the library, but some are freely available to all. 

Specific databases to try include:

Journals

Examples of e-journals in this discipline include:

Browsing or searching journals is useful when you already have a specific topic/focus for your research. For example, if you are researching physics you might want to take a look at the journal titled American Journal of Physics.

Using the Find Information drop down menu on the Library's homepage:

  1. Click the Find Journals link
  2. A new window will open with a search box.
  3. Enter the title of the journal
  4. Click Search
  5. Retrieve a list showing all available formats for the journal
  6. For online access click the link
  7. Find print journals in the Current Periodical section
  8. Find microfilm behind the Research Services Desk
  9. Get access to print journals located in storage by completing this form: Bound Journal Storage Request

Need Help? Ask at the User Services or Research Services desks!

Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

If you find an article that you believe will be useful for your research and it is behind a paywall, please submit a request for the article via Interlibrary Loan. You can complete the ILL form here: http://libguides.washjeff.edu/ill

Articles are scanned and shared as PDFs. Typically you'll receive your article within 48 hours and then the PDF is yours to keep. There is no charge for ILL requests and no limit to how many requests you can make.  

Need help? Just ask! Librarians can typically determine whether or not we have full-text access to an article very quickly. If we don't have it, we'll help you complete the ILL form.