1. What is Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)?

Definition: BAC is a measurement of alcohol concentration in a person's bloodstream, expressed as a percentage.

Purpose: This calculator estimates BAC based on alcohol consumed, body weight, time since consumption, and individual metabolic factors.

2. How Does the BAC Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Widmark formula:

Where:

• \( BAC \) — Blood Alcohol Content (%)
• \( A \) — Alcohol consumed (grams)
• \( W \) — Body weight (grams)
• \( r \) — Distribution ratio (0.68 for men, 0.55 for women)
• \( \beta \) — Elimination rate (typically 0.015%/hour)
• \( t \) — Time since consumption (hours)

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

3. Importance of BAC Calculation

Details: Understanding BAC helps assess impairment levels and make informed decisions about alcohol consumption and driving.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter alcohol in grams (1 standard drink ≈ 14g), weight in grams, and time since drinking began. Default values are provided for typical cases.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a standard drink equivalent?
A: Approximately 14g of pure alcohol (12oz beer, 5oz wine, or 1.5oz spirits).

Q2: Why different ratios for men and women?
A: Women typically have higher body fat percentage and lower water content, affecting alcohol distribution.

Q3: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides estimates. Actual BAC varies with food intake, metabolism, and individual factors.

Q4: What's the legal driving limit?
A: In most US states, 0.08% for drivers 21+. Commercial drivers and underage drinkers have lower limits.

Q5: How long to sober up?
A: BAC typically decreases by 0.015%/hour, but this varies by individual.