9. In terms of the effect on the central nervous system, alcohol is most accurately classified as which of the followi types of drug? (A) Depressant (B)Narcotic (C) Psychoactive (D) Stimulant

## Step 1<br />The question is asking us to identify the type of drug that alcohol is based on its effects on the central nervous system. The options provided are depressant, narcotic, psychoactive, and stimulant.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />Alcohol is known to slow down the central nervous system, which is a characteristic of depressants. Depressants are drugs that reduce arousal and stimulation in various areas of the brain. They are also known as "downers".<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Alcohol does not have the same effects as narcotics, which are drugs that relieve pain and induce sleep. Narcotics are not the same as depressants.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Alcohol is not a stimulant, which are drugs that increase mood, feelings of well-being, and physical and mental energy. Stimulants are not the same as depressants.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />Alcohol is not a psychoactive drug, which are drugs that alter the consciousness, mood, and thoughts of those who take them. Psychoactive drugs are not the same as depressants.