Abstract. Experimental results from four recent research reports on the determination of the density/temperature relationship of Standard Mean Ocean Water (SMOW) under a pressure of 101 325 Pa are analysed and a new formula is recommended for metrological applications. This paper determines the formulae of density and relative density, with their uncertainties, in the temperature range 0 °C to 40 °C. The uncertainty estimation of one of the reports included in the analysis has been re-evaluated. Effects on water density due to isotopic mixtures other than SMOW, ambient pressures different from 101 325 Pa, and the presence of dissolved air, are also reviewed.

Print publication: Issue 4 (August 2001)