What Does VSMOW Stand For?

VSMOW stands for Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water

VSMOW, or Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water, is a standard reference sample for isotopic composition of ocean water, representing the average isotopic ratios of stable hydrogen and oxygen in seawater. It is widely used in scientific research, particularly in fields such as hydrology, climatology, and oceanography, to provide a consistent basis for comparing isotopic measurements across different studies and geographic locations. VSMOW serves as a vital calibration standard for water isotope analysis, facilitating accurate understanding of hydrological processes and climate dynamics.