Liquor License Practice Test

At what rate does the liver process alcohol?

1. One standard drink per hour

2. Two standard drinks per hour

3. Three standard drinks per hour

4. Half a standard drink per hour

The correct answer is: One standard drink per hour

The liver processes alcohol at a rate of approximately one standard drink per hour. This is a general guideline widely accepted in the field of alcohol metabolism. A standard drink typically contains about 14 grams of pure alcohol, which can be found in a variety of beverages such as a 12-ounce beer (approximately 5% alcohol), a 5-ounce glass of wine (approximately 12% alcohol), or a 1.5-ounce shot of distilled spirits (approximately 40% alcohol). When alcohol enters the bloodstream, the liver works to metabolize it using enzymes, primarily alcohol dehydrogenase. Given the liver's limited capacity to process alcohol, consuming drinks at a rate faster than this can lead to increased blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and potentially intoxication. Understanding this rate is crucial for both responsible drinking and recognizing the signs of alcohol consumption effects on the body. The other choices suggest higher or lower processing rates than what the body can realistically manage in a healthy adult, which may lead to misconceptions about the effects of alcohol. This knowledge is essential when preparing for real-life scenarios involving alcohol consumption and is especially crucial for individuals involved in the sale or service of alcohol.