Where does alcohol primarily metabolize in the body?

Alcohol primarily metabolizes in the liver. This organ plays a crucial role in processing and breaking down alcohol through enzymatic actions. The liver contains enzymes such as alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase, which are vital for converting alcohol into acetaldehyde and then further into acetic acid, ultimately leading to its elimination from the body.

While small amounts of alcohol can be absorbed in the stomach or intestines and some minor metabolism can occur there, the liver is the main site for comprehensive metabolism due to its specialized enzyme systems and blood flow. The kidneys are involved in excreting waste products and regulating fluids but are not significant players in alcohol metabolism. The brain does process alcohol and is affected by it, but it does not metabolize alcohol to any substantial degree. Thus, the liver's primary role in alcohol metabolism makes it the correct choice.