Why is proof twice alcohol

No matter what proof is on your label, always drink responsibly. Take that, Canada. Elsewhere in the world, no more proof The scale used to be different in the U. What proof is this beer; eight or nine? All you need for your home bar set up. Ever wondered what the difference between tequila and mezcal was? Find out here. What Does "Proof" Mean in Alcohol? This one still remains a mystery to historians.

Some claim that the term originated from the British Royal Navy regarding rum in the 18th century , while others say it's a result of practices done to test whiskey made by farmers in America around the same time. Either way, the term "proof" definitely comes from a test that was done to test the amount of alcohol present in liquor. The liquor was mixed with gunpowder and set on fire. If nothing happened, the bottle was said to be watered down. If there was some sort of ignition or explosion, the bottle was "proofed" to contain an acceptable amount of alcoh ol.

Thus, doubling the alcohol content to derive an alcohol's proof began. Taxes were determined based on how much higher or lower the proof of the bottle was relative to proof. If the reasoning for our proof system wasn't enough to make you question its validity, wait until you learn that alcohol isn't even required to be labeled with its proof. Some liquors are defined by their proof but are commonly preceded by the percent alcohol content the proof represents.

Alcoholic beverages are always required to express the alcohol content in percent alcohol on the bottle. Chemistry Expert. Helmenstine holds a Ph. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels.

Facebook Facebook Twitter Twitter. Featured Video. Cite this Article Format. Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph. Alcohol Proof Definition and Examples. The Chemical Composition of Rubbing Alcohol. The United States Prohibition of Alcohol.

Absolute Alcohol Definition and Formula. Calculating Concentrations with Units and Dilutions. Ethanol Molecular Formula and Empirical Formula. Calculating the Concentration of a Chemical Solution. Molecular Formula for Common Chemicals.