What is the purpose of infrared energy absorption in the Intox EC/IR II?

What is the purpose of infrared energy absorption in the Intox EC/IR II?

• A. Monitor breath sample to ensure a deep lung sample and no mouth alcohol
• B. Calibrate the instrument
• C. Determine temperature
• D. Detect carbon monoxide

Answer: (A)

Infrared energy absorption is how the Intox EC/IR II determines ethanol in a breath sample. By directing infrared light through the breath and measuring how much energy is absorbed at ethanol-specific wavelengths, the device calculates the ethanol concentration in the sample. That absorption data also helps verify the sample quality—if the breath is from deep lung air (alveolar air) and not contaminated by mouth alcohol, the absorption pattern supports a valid reading. Calibration, temperature measurements, and carbon monoxide detection are handled separately and are not the purpose of the infrared absorption used for ethanol measurement.

Infrared energy absorption is how the Intox EC/IR II determines ethanol in a breath sample. By directing infrared light through the breath and measuring how much energy is absorbed at ethanol-specific wavelengths, the device calculates the ethanol concentration in the sample. That absorption data also helps verify the sample quality—if the breath is from deep lung air (alveolar air) and not contaminated by mouth alcohol, the absorption pattern supports a valid reading. Calibration, temperature measurements, and carbon monoxide detection are handled separately and are not the purpose of the infrared absorption used for ethanol measurement.