New York DMV Permit Written TestAlcohol and Drug LawsMedium
A driver is attending a party and consumes 4 standard alcoholic drinks over a two-hour period. Given that the body metabolizes alcohol at an average rate of approximately one standard drink per hour, what is the most accurate estimate of how many standard drinks are likely still in their system?
- A0 drinks
- B1 drink
- C2 drinks
- D3 drinks
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 2 drinks
The driver consumed 4 drinks over 2 hours. The body metabolizes approximately 1 standard drink per hour. So, in 2 hours, 2 drinks would have been metabolized (2 hours * 1 drink/hour = 2 drinks). Therefore, 4 total drinks - 2 metabolized drinks = 2 drinks remaining.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This would mean all alcohol was metabolized, which is incorrect given the timeframe and consumption.
- B. This would mean 3 drinks were metabolized, which is incorrect.
- D. This would mean only 1 drink was metabolized, which is incorrect.
Alcohol Elimination Rate
The human body metabolizes alcohol at a relatively constant rate, typically about one standard drink per hour, regardless of how quickly drinks are consumed.
- Average rate: 1 standard drink/hour
- Rate doesn't speed up with exercise/coffee
- Only time reduces BAC
Memory trick: One drink an hour, that's the power, to clear your system without a sour.