Final answer:
The equation c = r * t represents the total cost, c, to use the internet at the coffeehouse for t hours.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the given equation, c = r * t, where c is the total cost, r is the rate charged per hour, and t is the number of hours spent using the internet at the coffeehouse. This equation is a simple linear model that calculates the total cost based on the hourly rate and the duration of internet usage. The product of the rate and time yields the overall cost incurred during the specified time period.
For a more detailed understanding, consider an example: if the coffeehouse charges $5 per hour (r = $5) for internet usage and a customer spends 3 hours (t = 3) using the internet, the total cost (c) would be $15 (c = 5 * 3). This illustrates how the equation captures the relationship between the rate, time, and total cost.
The equation is versatile and allows for easy calculations of total costs for different scenarios. Whether the user spends more or less time online, or the rate varies, the equation remains applicable. It provides a straightforward and efficient way to estimate expenses related to internet usage at the coffeehouse.