Final answer:
A BAC of 0.08 gm/100 mL signifies legal intoxication and is typically the threshold at which driving becomes illegal. This level indicates impaired motor skills and judgement, leading to increased risks of accidents. Factors like individual health and tolerance can influence the effects of alcohol.
Step-by-step explanation:
A blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 grams per 100 milliliters (gm/100 mL) indicates the concentration of alcohol in the bloodstream. This level is considered as the legal threshold for intoxication in most regions, and driving with a BAC at or above this limit is illegal due to the impaired motor skills and judgment it signifies. The rate at which the body metabolizes alcohol is approximately 15 mg/dL per hour, meaning it can take several hours for a person's BAC to return to safe levels.
Alcohol intoxication and its effects, such as decreased reaction time and visual acuity, start to become apparent at this BAC level. As the alcohol level increases in the body, so does the degree of impairment, potentially leading to unconsciousness or even death at higher concentrations. A Breathalyzer can measure the ethanol concentration in a person's breath to estimate their BAC.
It's important to understand that individual tolerance can vary, and factors such as age, sex, body weight, and health conditions can influence how alcohol affects a person, regardless of the common BAC guidelines.