1. What is the BAC Formula?

The BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) formula estimates the percentage of alcohol in a person's bloodstream based on the amount of alcohol consumed, body weight, time since consumption, and individual metabolic factors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Widmark formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The first part calculates the initial BAC based on alcohol distribution in body water, while the second part accounts for alcohol metabolism over time.

3. Importance of BAC Calculation

Details: BAC estimation is crucial for understanding impairment levels, legal limits (typically 0.08% in many countries), and making responsible decisions about driving and activities requiring full cognitive function.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter alcohol consumed in grams (1 standard drink ≈ 14g), body weight in grams, select appropriate distribution ratio (default 0.68 for men), and time since consumption. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a standard drink in grams?
A: Approximately 14g of pure alcohol, equivalent to 12oz beer (5%), 5oz wine (12%), or 1.5oz spirits (40%).

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides an estimate. Actual BAC can vary based on food intake, metabolism, medication, and individual differences.

Q3: What's the legal BAC limit?
A: Varies by country, but commonly 0.08% in the US and 0.05% in many other countries for driving.

Q4: Why different distribution ratios?
A: Women typically have higher body fat percentage and less body water, leading to higher BAC from the same alcohol amount.

Q5: How long to sober up?
A: The body metabolizes alcohol at about 0.015%/hour on average, but this can vary by individual.