you will want to use our subject specific databases. Try searching in a database that covers only the fields you're interested in. Many of our physics journals are indexed by their publisher. Science journals that we don't already subscribe to can be requested for free via Interlibrary Loan.
a general database will cover most of what you need, including the basics of a topic and the latest developments. Try looking on the Discover search of the library homepage.
Physics has a tradition of supporting open access journals and materials. Some journals may be completely free to access; others may allow scientists to upload pre-prints or first drafts onto shared databases like those below. Researchers should carefully examine these resources to determine if they have gone through peer-review or come from a reputable journal.