Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC) and regular THC are both produced from the same substance, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). Delta-8 THC is considered to be one of the strongest forms of THC currently found in cannabis plants. It has been shown to induce more powerful psychoactive effects and deliver the ability to relieve pain with fewer adverse side effects than traditional forms of cannabis. This are some of the differences between both as linked here:
#1. Aromatic molecules are different
The aromatic molecules in delta-8 THC are arranged differently than those in regular THC. This gives delta-8 a distinctively different smell, often described as being earthier than regular THC.
#2. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) molecules are different
The main difference between delta-8 THC and regular THC is in their chemical structure. Both compounds are found in the cannabis plant, but delta-8 has a double bond on the 8th carbon while regular THC has a double bond on the 9th carbon. This slight difference in chemical structure leads to big differences in how the body reacts to each compound.
#3. Cannabinoid receptors are affected differently
While both compounds attach to the CB1 receptors in the brain, delta-8 THC is said to have a lower binding affinity than regular THC. This difference in binding affinity may account for some of the differing effects that these two compounds have on the mind and body. Additionally as linked here, delta-8 THC is said to be more stable than regular THC, meaning it lasts longer in the body and is less likely to be degraded by enzymes in the liver.