Blood Alcohol Level Calc

Widmark Formula:

\[ BAC = \frac{(Alcohol\ Consumed\ in\ g \times 5.14)}{(Weight\ in\ g \times r)} - (0.015 \times Hours) \]

Alcohol Consumed:

grams

Weight:

grams

Gender:

Hours Since Drinking:

hours

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Blood Alcohol Concentration?

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is the percentage of alcohol in a person's bloodstream. It is used as a metric for legal intoxication and to assess impairment levels. The Widmark formula provides a scientific estimation of BAC based on alcohol consumption and individual characteristics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Widmark formula:

\[ BAC = \frac{(Alcohol\ Consumed\ in\ g \times 5.14)}{(Weight\ in\ g \times r)} - (0.015 \times Hours) \]

Where:

\( Alcohol\ Consumed \) — Total alcohol consumed in grams
\( Weight \) — Body weight in grams
\( r \) — Distribution ratio (0.68 for men, 0.55 for women)
\( Hours \) — Hours since drinking began
\( 5.14 \) — Conversion factor
\( 0.015 \) — Average alcohol elimination rate per hour

Explanation: The formula accounts for alcohol distribution in body water and the body's natural elimination of alcohol over time.

3. Importance of BAC Calculation

Details: BAC calculation is crucial for understanding impairment levels, legal compliance, and making informed decisions about driving and other activities. Different BAC levels correspond to varying degrees of impairment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter alcohol consumed in grams, weight in grams, select gender, and hours since drinking began. All values must be valid (alcohol > 0, weight > 0, hours ≥ 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the legal BAC limit for driving?
A: In most jurisdictions, the legal limit is 0.08% for drivers over 21. Commercial drivers and underage drivers typically have lower limits.

Q2: How accurate is the Widmark formula?
A: It provides a reasonable estimate but individual metabolism, food consumption, and other factors can affect actual BAC levels.

Q3: What are the effects at different BAC levels?
A: 0.02-0.05%: Mild relaxation; 0.05-0.08%: Impaired judgment; 0.08-0.15%: Significant impairment; 0.15%+: Severe impairment and risk of alcohol poisoning.

Q4: How long does alcohol stay in your system?
A: The body metabolizes alcohol at about 0.015% per hour on average, but this varies by individual.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for legal purposes?
A: No, this is for educational purposes only. Legal BAC determinations require certified breathalyzer or blood tests.