THCa to THC
Theoretical THC and CO2 from a starting THCa mass
Input parameters
Starting or target mass
Equation
Calculators
Open a calculator
Methods and explanations
Scientific notes with working calculators
How the THCa to THC calculator works
Decarboxylation releases one molecule of CO2 for every molecule of THCa converted to THC. Because THC has a lower molecular mass, the theoretical conversion factor is 314.46 / 358.47, or approximately 0.87723. Enter the starting THCa mass above to estimate the THC-equivalent mass and CO2 released at complete conversion.
Understanding the 0.877 conversion factor
For 10 g of pure THCa, the theoretical output is approximately 8.772 g THC and 1.228 g CO2. The factor represents stoichiometric mass balance, not reaction efficiency, cannabinoid recovery or a guaranteed laboratory result. See the conversion formula and derivation.
Choosing the right decarboxylation tool
Use the batch yield calculator for mixed starting material, the THCa mass-loss analyzer for weight-based estimates, or the edible dosage calculator for modeled THC per serving. Water, solvents and other volatile losses make CO2-only measurements uncertain.