Physics and Astronomy Classification Scheme

The Physics and Astronomy Classification Scheme (PACS ) is a classification for the areas of physics and astronomy, which is published by the American Institute of Physics (AIP ), together with other members of the International Council on Scientific and Technical Information ( ICSTI ). PACS numbers are used in Physical Review since 1975, to identify subject areas and topics. The last internationally agreed version was set in 1991 (as of April 2008). Extended versions are released about every two years by AIP, the last one is from 2010. Both "Physics and Astronomy Classification Scheme " and " PACS " are trademarks of the American Institute of Physics.

Example

The class 33.15.Ta ( "Mass Spectra " ) is composed as follows:

The PACS hierarchy comprises a total of up to 5 levels.