What is the only factor that affects the rate alcohol is removed from the body?

The rate at which alcohol is removed from the body is primarily governed by time. Once alcohol is consumed, the body metabolizes it at a fairly consistent rate, regardless of other factors. This process is primarily carried out by the liver, which breaks down alcohol into acetaldehyde and then into acetic acid before it is eliminated from the body.

While other factors, such as the amount of food consumed, type of alcohol, and body weight, can influence how quickly a person feels the effects of alcohol or how alcohol is absorbed, they do not significantly alter the rate at which the body actually removes alcohol from the system. On average, the human body can metabolize about half a standard drink per hour, and this rate remains relatively stable over time.

Therefore, time is the only factor that directly impacts the rate of alcohol elimination from the body, highlighting the importance of waiting for a sufficient duration before engaging in activities like driving after consuming alcohol.