Problem #$4$: The force$-$deflection data for a spring having a nominal $($design$)$ stiffness value of

$100l\frac{b_f}{?}$ in are given in the following table:

We will assume that the deflection is the independent $(x)$ and force is the dependent $(y)$ variable.

For this data set determine:

a$)$ The best$-$fit value of i$)$ slope and ii$)$ intercept expressing each to three significant digits.

b$)$ Explain the physical significance of the two values reported in part a$)$