I need to write an abstract for my chemistry lab for identifying an unknown acid, is there a generic list of what to do for an abstract? because mine are always to long

Depends on the lab. High school labs should run no more than 100 words, college maybe 200 words. I could write many descriptive HS labs in 50 words.

<<The body of the abstract should indicate newly observed facts and the conclusions of the experiment or argument discussed in the paper. It should contain new numerical data presented in the paper if space permits; otherwise, attention should be drawn to the nature of such data. In the case of experimental results, the abstract should indicate the methods used in obtaining them; for new methods the basic principle, range of operation, and degree of accuracy should be given. The abstract should be typed as one paragraph. Its optimum length will vary somewhat with the nature and extent of the paper, but it should not exceed 200 words.

http://writing2.richmond.edu/training/project/biology/abslit.html

thank you! quick question, the link you provided mentioned to keep the methods section of the abstrast to about 2 sentences, but i had to do 6 experiments for it, do i have to fit all 6 different methods in the two sentences or would it be more like one sentence for each of them? The report with everything in it will be at least 10-15 pages so idk how or if that changes things

I think I would just say " by six independent methods: , , , ...

and not say more than that in the abstract. However, in the intro in each section, you describe the method.

ok thank you!

Writing an abstract for a chemistry lab report is a concise summary of the experiment and its key findings. While there isn't a generic list that applies to all lab reports, I can provide you with a general structure and guidelines to help you write a concise abstract. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Purpose/Objective: Begin by stating the purpose or objective of the lab experiment. Briefly explain why you conducted the experiment or what you aimed to achieve.

2. Methods/Procedures: Describe the experimental methods or procedures used to identify the unknown acid. Include relevant details such as reagents, equipment used, and any specific techniques employed.

3. Results: Summarize the main results obtained from the experiment. Include quantitative data, such as measurements or observations, and qualitative information, such as color changes or physical properties.

4. Conclusions: State the conclusions drawn from the results. What did you learn or discover through the experiment? Did you successfully identify the unknown acid, or were there limitations or uncertainties?

5. Implications/Significance: Discuss the implications or significance of your findings. How does your identification of the unknown acid contribute to the field of chemistry? Is there any practical application or relevance to the broader scientific community?

6. Length and Format: Keep your abstract concise and avoid unnecessary details. Aim for a length of approximately 150-250 words. Use clear and concise language, and ensure that your abstract flows logically from one section to another.

Remember, the abstract should provide a brief overview of your experiment and findings, enticing the reader to read the full lab report. Make sure to capture the essential aspects while omitting excessive details. Proofread your abstract for clarity, grammar, and correct reporting of key information.

Following these guidelines should help you create a concise abstract for your chemistry lab report.