The Intox EC/IR II detects alcohol by which mechanism?

The Intox EC/IR II detects alcohol by which mechanism?

• A. Color change
• B. Mass spectrometry signal
• C. Thermal change
• D. Electrical voltage proportional to alcohol amount

Answer: (D)

The breath test relies on an electrochemical sensor (a fuel cell) inside the unit. When ethanol from the breath reaches this sensor, it is oxidized at the electrode, and that chemical reaction generates an electrical current. The amount of current (or the corresponding voltage) produced is proportional to how much ethanol is present in the breath. The instrument converts that electrical signal into a BAC value for display. Color change, mass spectrometry signals, or a thermal change aren’t how this device measures alcohol, so none of those options describe the measurement method.

The breath test relies on an electrochemical sensor (a fuel cell) inside the unit. When ethanol from the breath reaches this sensor, it is oxidized at the electrode, and that chemical reaction generates an electrical current. The amount of current (or the corresponding voltage) produced is proportional to how much ethanol is present in the breath. The instrument converts that electrical signal into a BAC value for display. Color change, mass spectrometry signals, or a thermal change aren’t how this device measures alcohol, so none of those options describe the measurement method.