(–)-trans-Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Psychoactive Component in Cannabis

Method Conditions

Discussion

Tetrahydrocannabinol has several isomeric forms, which may account for the extra peaks observed in the chromatograms. Although their identities could not be confirmed, these peaks can be separated from the main peak using the Bidentate C18 column. The compound is quite hydrophobic and therefore a relatively high organic content is used in the mobile phase to ensure the retention is not excessive. Run-to-run precision is very reliable using this column, as the overlay of five injections demonstrates.

Note: THC is the psychoactive component found naturally in the cannabis plant. Although still classified as a Schedule I controlled substance at the federal level, several US states now have laws allowing its use for recreational purposes.

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