After the samples we talked about in Part 1 were prepared for analysis, Dr. Sean showed us the ways in which we could interpret the results from the test. Firstly, he showed us mass spectra graphs, which indicate the presence of different types of cannabinoids. The machine integrates the area under each respective curve to work out the exact concentration of each compound, but we wanted to give it a go ourselves. After looking at various line spectra, we constructed a curve of our own and integrated the area under the curve by hand. Our work is below.
Dr. Sean then informed us about the various ways in which line spectra are helpful in determining the presence of a drug or compound in a urine, blood, or, in this case, hemp sample. His lab work is integral to hemp farmers in southern North Carolina since he tests for the legality of each plant strain. By doing so, he ensures that the farmers can grow hemp legally and prosperously for years to come.