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Mathematical and Scientific Typography

Math variables: set italic:   y = ax + b,   v_x,   p = .05

             • This applies to all math symbols that take on numerical values, including math and physical constants: 

                        e = 2.718 . . .    c = 3.00 × 10⁸ m/s.

 Math functions: set roman:   sin x   cos θ    ln(x + 1)

 Words and abbreviations: set roman:   x_max    y^long    

N_A (Avogadro’s number)      k_B (Boltzmann’s constant)

             •Set MW (molecular weight) roman. MW means M × W

 Space around all math operators: + − × ÷ = < > ± ≤ if math or number on both sides: x + 3 = y − 2, z = 1200 cm⁻¹, 4 < 7

             • but close up if math only on right:    result is <3    it is below −4.

 Always space between number, unit:   L = 10 cm   T = 300 K

 Use real degree signs:    T = 25 ºC    ΔHº. No superscripts! No oh’s!

No special fonts!

           • From Insert −> Symbol

 Use real minus signs: 3 + 5 − 7 = 1, T = −10 ºC, 300 cm⁻¹. No hyphens!

           • From Insert −> Symbol: + − + −

            • Some authors use en dashes, but they don’t line up: + – + –

 Use real times signs: 3 × 4 = 12. No ex’s! (Use same font as main text.)

 Units as surnames of scientists: Capitalize as abbreviations, lowercase as words:

             2 V × 3 A = 6 W   300 K;   two volts   300 kelvins

 Ordinal numbers: not superscripts. Change   1^st    2^nd    3^rd   to   1st    2nd    3rd.

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