What is the common abbreviation for water in medical settings?

The common abbreviation for water in medical and scientific contexts is H2O. This notation reflects the molecular composition of water, which consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom. In various fields, including medicine, understanding the chemical formula for water is essential as it emphasizes its role in human physiology, hydration, and various biological processes.

The other options presented do not correctly represent water. HO is insufficient as it omits one hydrogen atom, while H20O inaccurately suggests an additional oxygen atom that is not present in the actual formula for water. H2O2, known as hydrogen peroxide, indicates a compound that contains two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms, which is entirely different from water and serves distinct purposes in medicine. Thus, recognizing H2O as the correct abbreviation is important for clear communication in healthcare settings.