1. What is a BAC Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) based on alcohol consumption, body weight, time, and metabolic factors.

Purpose: It helps individuals estimate their level of alcohol impairment for safety and legal compliance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Widmark formula:

Where:

• \( BAC \) — Blood Alcohol Concentration (%)
• \( A \) — Alcohol consumed (grams)
• \( W \) — Body weight (grams)
• \( r \) — Distribution ratio (unitless)
• \( \beta \) — Elimination rate (%/hour)
• \( t \) — Time since consumption (hours)

Explanation: The formula accounts for alcohol absorption, body mass distribution, and metabolic elimination over time.

3. Importance of BAC Calculation

Details: Understanding BAC helps prevent drunk driving, alcohol poisoning, and legal consequences. Most countries have a legal limit of 0.05-0.08%.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter alcohol in grams (1 standard drink ≈ 14g), body weight in grams, distribution ratio (default 0.68 for males, 0.55 for females), elimination rate (default 0.015%/hour), and time since drinking began.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides an estimate. Actual BAC varies based on metabolism, food intake, medication, and individual differences.

Q2: What's a standard drink in grams?
A: Approximately 14g: 12oz beer (5%), 5oz wine (12%), or 1.5oz liquor (40%).

Q3: Why different ratios for men and women?
A: Women typically have higher body fat percentage and lower water content, affecting alcohol distribution.

Q4: Can I drive after 1 drink?
A: Depends on weight, time, and drink strength. Always err on the side of caution - if in doubt, don't drive.

Q5: How long until I'm sober?
A: BAC drops about 0.015% per hour. At 0.08%, it takes approximately 5.5 hours to reach 0%.