How does a 12-ounce glass of 5% beer compare to a 1.5-ounce shot of 80 proof liquor?

To understand the comparison between a 12-ounce glass of 5% beer and a 1.5-ounce shot of 80 proof liquor, it's essential to calculate the amount of pure alcohol in each beverage.

In a 12-ounce glass of beer that has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5%, the calculation for the amount of alcohol is as follows:

1. Calculate the total ounces of alcohol:

12 ounces (beer) × 0.05 (5%) = 0.6 ounces of alcohol.

Now, for the 1.5-ounce shot of 80 proof liquor, it's important to remember that "proof" is a measure of the strength of an alcoholic beverage. 80 proof liquor contains 40% alcohol by volume. Therefore, the calculation for the shot is:

1. Calculate the total ounces of alcohol:

1.5 ounces (liquor) × 0.40 (40%) = 0.6 ounces of alcohol.

Both beverages contain 0.6 ounces of alcohol, indicating that, in terms of pure alcohol content, they are equivalent.

Therefore, while the initial answer might suggest that the beer contains less alcohol, both drinks actually deliver the same volume of