The Abstract

(From "The ACS Style Guide", Janet S. Dodd, Ed., p. 18-20)

Most publications require an abstract. The purpose of the abstract is to allow a busy scientist to quickly determine the nature and scope of the paper and helps editors identify key features for indexing and retrieval. The normal length of the abstract is one paragraph but depends on the subject matter and the length of the paper. Between 80 and 200 words is usually adequate.

For the Ch 313 monochromator lab, I would like to see at least 200 words.

Follow these guidelines when writing an abstract:

• Briefly state the problem or the purpose of the research
• Indicate the theoretical or experimental plan used
• Summarize the principle findings and point out major conclusions
• Include chemical safety information when applicable
• Do not supplement or evaluate the conclusions in the text
• Do not cite references, tables, figures, or sections of the paper in the abstract
• Do not include equations or structures
• Use abbreviations and acronyms only when it is necessary to prevent awkward construction or needless repetition, Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)
• Define abbreviations at first use in the abstract (and again at first use in the text)

Here is the outline to follow when writing your abstract for Lab #1: Monochromators

• Part IIIA: for the MiniChrome monochromator, compare the experimental versus theoretical value of D''.
• Part IIIB: The results of calculating the value for D'I and resolution for the gas-phase spectrum of benzene
• Part V: measuring the groove density of an unknown grating