Which of the following is a common side effect of alcohol consumption?

B is the correct answer because alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, and its consumption typically leads to various impairments in mental and physical functioning. Common side effects include confusion, drowsiness, and decreased cognitive abilities. These effects can manifest as a lack of clarity in thinking and a state of lethargy, making it difficult for individuals to think clearly or respond to their environment appropriately.

The other potential responses reflect outcomes that are not characteristic of alcohol use. Increased energy levels are more commonly associated with stimulants rather than depressants. Improved coordination is also misleading, as alcohol tends to impair motor skills and coordination, leading to clumsiness or unsteadiness. Enhanced short-term memory is not typical; in fact, alcohol can hinder memory formation and retrieval, leading to difficulties in remembering recent events. Therefore, the selection of confusion and drowsiness accurately reflects typical effects of alcohol consumption.