Education
How alcohol metabolism works.
Your body does not process alcohol according to a perfectly predictable countdown timer. That's one reason BAC calculators can only provide estimates.
Step 01
Absorption
After alcohol is consumed, it is absorbed into the bloodstream. The speed and extent of absorption can vary depending on factors such as the amount consumed and whether food is present.
Step 02
Distribution
Alcohol distributes through body water. Mathematical BAC models therefore use body weight and a distribution factor to estimate concentration.
Step 03
Peak concentration
BAC can continue changing after someone stops drinking because alcohol may still be entering the bloodstream while the body is simultaneously eliminating alcohol.
Step 04
Elimination
The body eliminates alcohol over time. Calculators often model this using an assumed average elimination rate, but the actual rate varies among individuals.
Variables that can affect the estimate
The takeaway
A BAC calculator can demonstrate how different variables influence a mathematical model. It cannot replace a measurement of actual BAC or determine whether someone should drive.
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