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

Modeling contaminant sorption data using a linear model is very common; however, the rationale for whether the y-intercept should be constrained or not remains a subject of debate. This article justifies constraining the y-intercept in the linear model to zero. By doing so, one imposes consistency on the system of linear equations, allowing for direct comparison of the sorption coefficients. Organic contaminants; Linear sorption modeling; Distribution coefficient; System of consistent linear equations; Homogeneous system of linear equations; Surface chemistry; Soil chemistry; Soil pollution; Environmental pollution; Contaminant transport; Environmental science