This can occur quite rapidly, but there are factors such as if there is food in the stomach, or certain medical conditions that can affect the absorption rate.

This is dependent upon body size, body composition and rate of absorption.

Yes, it can affect the rate of absorption and therefore affect the rate of accumulation of alcohol in the blood.

Studies show that women may be more vulnerable to the effects of alcohol.

It depends how much you drink and how well your body metabolizes the alcohol.  A general rule of thumb is that a healthy drinker reduces their alcohol concentration by about .015 BrAC per hour.

Not to a degree that would be noticeable to the user.