What percentage of alcohol is absorbed in the small intestine?

The absorption of alcohol in the human body primarily occurs in the gastrointestinal tract, with a significant portion taking place in the small intestine. Approximately 80% of the alcohol consumed is absorbed there due to the large surface area and the rich supply of blood vessels that facilitate the transfer of alcohol into the bloodstream.

The small intestine is particularly effective in absorbing substances because it is structured to maximize absorption, with villi and microvilli increasing the surface area. This efficient absorption means that the majority of the alcohol enters systemic circulation fairly quickly after consumption, leading to its rapid onset of effects.

While initial absorption occurs in the stomach, it is the small intestine that is primarily responsible for the majority of alcohol absorption, making the percentage of around 80% accurate in reflecting how alcohol is processed in the body. The other options represent incorrect percentages that do not align with the physiological understanding of alcohol absorption.