Final answer:
Alcohol is primarily metabolized by the liver, which uses enzymes to convert alcohol into non-toxic substances. Chronic excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver disease and affect the functioning of the excretory system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alcohol is primarily metabolized by the liver. The liver is capable of metabolizing approximately 85% to 98% of the ethanol present in the bloodstream using various metabolic processes. During these metabolic processes, the liver enzymes, particularly alcohol dehydrogenase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, convert ethanol into acetaldehyde and then further into acetate, which is non-toxic. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver disease, and since the liver works alongside the kidneys to remove wastes, this can result in added stress and potential dysfunction of the kidneys. Thus, maintaining liver health is crucial for the proper functioning of the excretory system.