Let’s solve this step by step.

1. Spring Force Formula: According to Hooke's Law, the force stretching the spring is proportional to the displacement and can be expressed as $F_s = kx$. The spring constant $k$ can then be derived as $k = \frac{F_s}{x}$.

2. Weight of the Mass: The force $F_s$ stretching the spring due to gravity is given by: $F_s = mg$ where $m$ is the mass of the object and $g$ is the acceleration due to gravity.

3. Substitute Values for $F_s$: The mass $m = 9 \, \text{g} = 9 \times 10^{-3} \, \text{kg}$, and $g = 9.80 \, \text{m/s}^2$.

   Calculate $F_s$: $F_s = (9 \times 10^{-3}) \cdot 9.80 = 0.0882 \, \text{N}.$

Final Answer:

The force stretching the spring is: $F_s = 0.0882 \, \text{N}.$

Let me know if you would like assistance in calculating the spring constant $k$ or solving related problems.

Follow-Up Questions:

1. How is the displacement $x$ related to the spring constant $k$?
2. What would be the spring constant if the displacement $x$ is given as $0.01 \, \text{m}$?
3. How does increasing the mass affect the stretching force on the spring?
4. Can you derive the formula for $k$ in terms of mass and displacement?
5. What assumptions are made in this problem for simplicity?

Tip: Always keep units consistent while solving physics problems!