THCa from mass loss
Compare initial and final weights to estimate starting THCa under a CO2-only loss model.
Gravimetric inputs
Starting mass and remaining mass
Equation
Calculation method Equation, inputs and limitations
Interpreting a mass-loss estimate
For pure THCa fully converted to THC, approximately 12.277% of starting acid mass leaves as CO2. This tool divides observed mass loss by that fraction to infer the mass of starting THCa, then divides by initial sample mass for an estimated percentage.
Because gravimetry alone does not identify the source of evaporated compounds or validate reaction completeness, this calculation is an inference under restrictive assumptions, not a laboratory potency determination.
Questions & limitations 2 answers
Can weight loss alone determine the actual THCa percentage?
No. Weight loss is not chemically specific. Moisture, terpenes, solvents, and other acidic cannabinoids may also contribute. The output is a model-dependent estimate, not a potency assay.
Why can the calculator reject a mass-loss measurement?
Some measurements imply more THCa than the original sample could physically contain, or a final mass greater than the initial mass. Those values violate the simplified stoichiometric assumptions.