Gas Chromatography Testing

Gas chromatography (GC) is an analytical chemistry technique used to separate and identify volatile compounds in cannabis samples. By heating plant material and passing the resulting vapor through a specialized column, GC isolates individual terpenes and other volatile molecules for detection and quantification. This method differs from sensory evaluation by providing objective, reproducible data on chemical composition rather than subjective aroma perception. GC analysis is commonly used in breeding programs and quality control to document terpene profiles, though it measures chemical presence rather than human olfactory experience. Results typically report terpene percentages and can reveal minor volatile compounds not easily detected by smell alone.

Breeders working with terpene-forward cultivars often use GC testing to track consistency of volatile profiles across generations and phenotypes. This objective data helps guide selection decisions when pursuing specific aromatic traits or stability in seed lines.