Two molecular weights: why a certificate can quote either, and they differ

Published 9 October 2026 · REVIVE LAB UAE Research Desk · 5 min read
Average mass uses the natural isotopic abundance of each element; monoisotopic mass uses only the most abundant isotope of each. Both are correct for the same molecule and they differ, with the gap widening as the molecule grows.

Where the difference comes from

Carbon is mostly carbon-12 with a little carbon-13. Average mass accounts for that mixture; monoisotopic mass assumes every carbon is carbon-12.

For a small peptide the two differ by a fraction of a dalton. For a larger molecule the accumulated difference is several daltons, because every additional carbon widens it.

Which one a certificate means

High-resolution instruments resolve individual isotope peaks and report monoisotopic mass. Lower-resolution methods see an unresolved envelope and report an average. Both are legitimate, and the measurement should say which it is.

The error worth avoiding is comparing a monoisotopic measurement against an average theoretical value, or the reverse, and reading the difference as a problem with the material.

How this catalogue states it

Molecular weights here are approximate and marked as such — about 1880 daltons for TB500, about 9111 for IGF-1 LR3, about 22 125 for somatropin, about 340 for the GHK peptide plus its coordinated copper.

They are stated to identify the molecule, not as a specification to test against. The number to compare a measurement with is the one on that batch’s certificate.

Frequently asked

Where the difference comes from?

Carbon is mostly carbon-12 with a little carbon-13. Average mass accounts for that mixture; monoisotopic mass assumes every carbon is carbon-12.

Does REVIVE LAB UAE provide dosing guidance?

No. REVIVE LAB UAE supplies research materials and provides no dosing, administration or protocol guidance of any kind. Every product is sold for laboratory research use only and is not for human or veterinary consumption.

How fast is delivery in the UAE?

Stock is held in Dubai. An order confirmed before 4 PM Dubai time is dispatched the same working day, reaching Dubai and Abu Dhabi the same day and the remaining emirates within 24 hours. Delivery is AED 40 flat and free over AED 700.

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Supplied for laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary consumption. REVIVE LAB UAE provides no dosing, administration or protocol guidance.