Final answer:
Alcohol is metabolized primarily by the liver, with up to 98% of circulatory ethanol being processed. Metabolism involves two processes: the production of acetaldehyde and the Microsomal Ethanol Oxidizing System (MEOS). The rate of alcohol removal from the bloodstream can vary, but on average, it is around 3.3 mmol/L per hour.
Step-by-step explanation:
When alcohol is consumed, it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. The liver is responsible for metabolizing alcohol, with up to 85-98% of the circulatory ethanol being processed. The liver uses two metabolic processes to break down alcohol and eliminate it from the body. One metabolic process involves the production of acetaldehyde as the first reaction, followed by the formation of other products. The second metabolic process is known as the Microsomal Ethanol Oxidizing System (MEOS), which is responsible for metabolizing about 10-20% of total liver ethanol uptake, especially during heavy drinking. The rate at which alcohol is removed from the bloodstream can vary between individuals, but on average, an adult typically metabolizes alcohol at a rate of about 3.3 mmol/L (15 mg/dL) per hour.