Gas Chromatography Gc Ms

Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is an analytical laboratory technique that separates and identifies chemical compounds in cannabis plant material. The method heats samples to vaporize volatile constituents, then uses a chromatography column to separate compounds by boiling point and polarity before mass spectrometry detects and quantifies each molecule. GC-MS is commonly used in cannabis research and quality assurance to profile cannabinoids, terpenes, and residual solvents. Because samples must be heated during analysis, GC-MS may decarboxylate acidic cannabinoids (THCA, CBDA) into their neutral forms (THC, CBD), which is an important limitation when interpreting results. This technique remains a standard reference method in cannabis breeding programs and regulatory testing laboratories.

Breeders and geneticists use GC-MS data to confirm terpene and cannabinoid profiles across seed lines and phenotypes, helping establish stable genetic markers. The technique supports targeted breeding selection when combined with field observations and sensory evaluation.