This report provides comprehensive statistical information on the size and scope of federal funding for research and development and the types of institutions and purposes to which such funds are directed. Some of the highlights of the report include: (1) an upward trend since 1970 in federal R&D support is indicated in the 1973 budget; (2) the 1973 basic research obligations are expected to total $2.6 billion, and applied research obligations are estimated at $4.7 billion-record highs for both categories; (3) in 1973 approximately 74% of the federal R&D total is expected to be directed to extramural performers; (4) the share for industry, the principal R&D performer, will have declined from a high of 66% in 1963 to 52% in 1973; and (5) universities and colleges are expected to represent 12% of the federal R&D total in 1973, as compared with 7% in 1963. (Author/HS)