Statistical information, based on the 1978 survey in a series of biennial surveys known as the National Sample of Scientists and Engineers, sponsored by the National Science Foundation and conducted by the Bureau of the Census is presented. Individuals in the field of physical sciences are profiled, including chemists, physicists and astronomers, and other physical scientists. Statistics in tabular form are provided which describe the composition, education and training, professional experience and growth of the field, labor force participation, and income of these scientists. Appendixes provide: (1) definitions and explanations; (2) a discussion of the reliability of the estimates and standard errors of totals and percentages; (3) a sample of the questionnaire and reference lists; (4) sources of data from the items of the questionnaire; and (5) response rates of the participants. (CS)