Texas Intoxilyzer 9000 Certification Practice Test – Prep & Study Guide

The breath sample is analyzed by the Intoxilyzer 9000 through the measurement of the absorption of infrared light at specific wavelengths. This method is based on the principle that different gases absorb infrared light at characteristic wavelengths. When a breath sample is introduced into the device, it is subjected to an infrared light source. The alcohol molecules in the breath absorb the infrared light, and the amount of light absorbed is proportional to the concentration of alcohol present in the breath sample.

This absorption technique is highly effective for quantifying the levels of alcohol because it allows for precise measurements without being affected by other components of the breath, such as water vapor or carbon dioxide. The device then uses this data to calculate the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) based on the known relationship between breath and blood alcohol levels.