Organic contaminant sorption parameters should only be compared across a consistent system of linear functions

• DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e03511
• Publication Date: 2020-03-26T13:12:46Z
• Authors: Mark A. Chappell; Jennifer M. Seiter; Haley M. West; Lesley F. Miller; Maria E. Negrete; Joshua J. LeMonte; Beth E. Porter; Cynthia L. Price; Matthew A. Middleton
• Keywords: System of consistent linear equations; H1-99; Science (General); Distribution coefficient; 0207 environmental engineering; 02 engineering and technology; Surface chemistry; Linear sorption modeling; Homogeneous system of linear equations; Article; Social sciences (General); Organic contaminants; Q1-390; 13. Climate action

Modeling contaminant sorption data using a linear model is very common; however, the rationale for whether y-intercept should be constrained or not remains subject of debate. This article justifies constraining in to zero. By doing so, one imposes consistency on system equations, allowing direct comparison coefficients.