The scatter plot shows the length of a spring, in inches, when a stretch force, in pounds, is applied. The equation represents the linear model for this data. y = 0.73x + 1 What does the number 0.73 in the equation mean in this context? The spring has a length of 0.73 inch when no force is applied. The spring will stretch 0.73 inch for every pound of force applied. The spring has no stretch when a force of 0.73 pound is applied. The spring stretches at a rate of 0.73 pound per inch. The spring stretches a distance of 1 inch when a force of 0.73 pound is applied.