What percentage of alcohol is immediately absorbed in the mouth before reaching the stomach?

The correct answer is that approximately 20% of alcohol is immediately absorbed in the mouth before reaching the stomach. This absorption occurs primarily through the mucous membranes found in the mouth, and it's an important aspect of alcohol metabolism to understand. Rather than passing directly to the stomach, a portion of the alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream right away, contributing to its effects on the body.

The other percentages do not reflect the physiological process accurately. While it's true that alcohol is absorbed in various parts of the digestive system, the commonly accepted figure for absorption in the mouth is around 20%. This knowledge is essential for alcohol sellers and servers, as it informs them about how quickly alcohol can affect a person's system based on how and where it is consumed. Understanding this absorption rate can help in responsible serving practices and in monitoring patrons’ alcohol consumption more effectively.