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I usually use "eq" but I have been told to use "equiv." in order to avoid confusion with "equation". Is there a reference I can check?

markellos
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    Santiago's answer is authoritative but if you want to invent your own abbreviation that is (i) shorter than equiv and (ii) avoids ambiguity with equation, I suggest "eqv". – Curt F. Aug 17 '15 at 21:14
  • Yes, and to @CurtF.' comment - whatever you choose to do - be consistent. –  Aug 18 '15 at 07:21

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The first place to check would be standards that are used frequently globally, such as CAS. According to the American Chemical Society page CAS Standard Abbreviations & Acronyms, the abbreviation for the unit of measurement 'equivalent' is equiv, while that of the adjective 'equivalent' is equiv. (with a dot).

Also, the ACS page Standard Abbreviations and Acronyms, shows equation abbreviated to eq and equivalent as equiv.

However, some journals, such as the Journal of Biological Chemistry page Table I: Abbreviations of units of measurement and of physical and chemical quantities state that the abbreviation of equivalent is as you used, eq, so if you are intending to publishing, just be aware of what the journal expects in terms of abbreviations.

markellos
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