An “eight ball” is a common street term referring to one-eighth of an ounce (3.5 grams) of cocaine. The price of this quantity can vary significantly based on several factors including geographical location, purity of the substance, local market dynamics, and the relationship between buyer and seller. Purchasing illicit substances carries significant legal risks, with penalties ranging from hefty fines to imprisonment depending on the jurisdiction and quantity involved.
Understanding the terminology and typical quantities associated with drug trafficking provides valuable context for law enforcement, public health officials, and researchers studying drug use trends and related harms. This knowledge can assist in accurate data collection, analysis of market forces, and development of targeted intervention strategies. Historically, the standardization of quantities like the “eight ball” has facilitated the illicit drug trade, providing a common language for transactions and potentially contributing to the normalization of drug use within certain subcultures.