The best fit for the description provided is:
A. equation
A linear model is indeed often represented as an equation, typically in the form \(y = mx + b\), where \(m\) is the slope (constant rate of change) and \(b\) is the y-intercept.
However, depending on how one interprets "mathematical blank" in relation to a linear model, options B (graph) and C (table) can also be considered relevant:
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B. graph: A linear model can be graphically represented as a straight line, which illustrates the constant rate of change visually.
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C. table: A linear model can also be represented in a table format showing corresponding values of \(x\) and \(y\) that obey a linear relationship.
So, the most direct answer is A, but B and C can also apply in broader contexts.