Organic chem q on breathalyzer

In summary, organic chemistry is the study of carbon-containing compounds and their properties, reactions, and synthesis. It is important in the development of breathalyzers as these devices use organic compounds as a marker for alcohol consumption. A breathalyzer works by measuring the amount of alcohol in a person's breath through a chemical reaction. Not all breathalyzers are the same, with different types using different methods to detect alcohol. While breathalyzers can provide accurate readings, their accuracy may be affected by external factors and it is important to use them correctly and regularly calibrate them. Breathalyzers can be used as evidence in court, but their admissibility may vary and they can be challenged by a qualified attorney. It is recommended to consult with a
  • #1
Moe*
10
0
If a person drank methanol, they would go blind, and their breathalyser analysis (in units of mg/100 mL blood) would be in error. Its reading would be?
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
  • #2
I believe that the breathalyzer uses an oxidation reaction (potassium dichromate, silver nitrate, sulfuric acid) to convert the dichromate into chromate which is then measured. All things being equal, the error should be on the order of the ratio of the molecular weight of ethanol to methanol and the results expressed in mg/l. The reading would be high by that ratio.
 
  • #3


If a person were to consume methanol, they would indeed go blind as it is a toxic substance that can cause irreparable damage to the optic nerve. Additionally, the breathalyzer analysis for this individual would be inaccurate due to the presence of methanol in their system. The reading would likely be higher than it should be, as the breathalyzer measures the concentration of alcohol in the blood. Methanol is broken down into formaldehyde and formic acid in the body, and these byproducts can be falsely detected as ethanol by the breathalyzer. Therefore, it is crucial for law enforcement and medical professionals to be aware of the potential presence of methanol in a person's system and take appropriate measures to ensure accurate results.
 

1. What is organic chemistry and how does it relate to breathalyzers?

Organic chemistry is the study of carbon-containing compounds and their properties, reactions, and synthesis. It is an important field in the development of breathalyzers because these devices use organic compounds, such as ethanol, as a marker for alcohol consumption. Understanding the chemical properties of these compounds is crucial for accurate breathalyzer readings.

2. How does a breathalyzer work?

A breathalyzer works by measuring the amount of alcohol in a person's breath. When a person has consumed alcohol, ethanol from the bloodstream is expelled through the lungs and into the breath. The breathalyzer then uses a chemical reaction to detect and quantify the amount of ethanol present in the breath, which correlates to the amount of alcohol in the bloodstream.

3. Are all breathalyzers the same?

No, there are different types of breathalyzers that use different methods to detect alcohol. The most common type is a fuel cell breathalyzer, which uses a chemical reaction between ethanol and oxygen to produce an electrical current that is measured and converted into a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading. Other types include infrared breathalyzers and semiconductor breathalyzers, which use different technologies to measure BAC.

4. How accurate are breathalyzers?

Breathalyzers can provide accurate readings when used correctly and regularly calibrated. However, they are subject to certain limitations and external factors that can affect their accuracy, such as the type of alcohol consumed, the time since consumption, and the individual's breathing pattern. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the breathalyzer as directed for the most accurate results.

5. Can breathalyzers be used as evidence in court?

Yes, breathalyzers can be used as evidence in court, but their admissibility may vary depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances of the case. It is important to note that breathalyzers are not infallible and can be challenged in court by a qualified attorney who can raise questions about their accuracy and reliability. It is always best to consult with a legal professional if you are facing a DUI charge based on breathalyzer results.

Similar threads

Replies
24
Views
23K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
8
Views
4K
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
13
Views
6K
  • Chemistry
Replies
12
Views
11K
Replies
16
Views
2K
Back
Top