To translate the given scenario into an algebraic equation, we can follow these steps:
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Identify the variables:
- Let \( m \) represent the number of miles driven.
- Let \( t \) represent the total cost.
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Set up the equation:
- The cost per mile is $5, so for \( m \) miles driven, the cost is \( 5m \).
- There is also a fixed rental fee of $100.
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Combine these costs: The total cost \( t \) can thus be expressed as:
\[ t = 5m + 100 \]
So, the algebraic equation that represents the total cost is:
\[ t = 5m + 100 \]