Literature Output of Cosmic Rays: A Scientometric Analysis

Abstract

This paper attempts to highlight the publication status and growth of global cosmic rays research publication output of Web of Science during 2004-2013. A total of 20395 publications were published on cosmic rays during this period. The average number of publications per year is 2039.5 and the highest numbers of publications 2565 were published in 2009. Out of total publications, 5288 were produced by mega authors and 2794 by multi authors. Pattern of Co-Authorship revealed that the improving trend of co-authored publications. The average value of Collaboration Coefficient for cosmic rays is 0.64. The parameters studied include forms of publications, annual growth rate, relative growth rate and doubling time ofpublications, authorship pattern, identification of most prolific authors, country wise distribution of publications, identification of highly productive institutions, language wise distribution of publications and highly preferred source titles for publications.