Which statement best defines why ethanol is classified as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant?

It reduces the speed and efficiency of neuronal signaling in the brain, producing slowed cognition and reflexes.

It selectively increases the release of excitatory neurotransmitters in the cortex while suppressing metabolic enzymes in the liver to indirectly alter brain activation patterns.

It acts as an enzyme inhibitor in skeletal muscle tissue causing peripheral muscle relaxation without affecting central neural transmission.

It functions primarily by stimulating peripheral nerves to enhance sensory perception and motor reflexes during acute use, which leads to increased alertness in small doses but sedation in larger amounts.