Inelastic x-ray scattering from oxygen Is electrons in liquid and solid wat
er were recorded up to 200 eV above the onset of the O K edge. The-partial
radial distribution function that characterizes the local environment of ox
ygen in the water/ice system was determined. Good agreement is found betwee
n the resulting partial distribution function for liquid water and that obt
ained from elastic neutron scattering. In the near-edge region distinct dif
ferences between the solid and liquid states are observed which arise form
differences in the local structural and electronic environment of the oxyge
n atoms. The method thus promises a degree of insight into details of hydro
gen bonding interactions.