Final answer:
The linear equation is y = 12x + 50, where y represents the monthly pay rate and x represents the number of hours worked.
Step-by-step explanation:
A mathematical equation is a statement asserting that two mathematical expressions are equal. It consists of variables, constants, and mathematical operations.
The linear equation that could be used to find Esther's monthly pay rate is given by:
y = 12x + 50
where y represents the monthly pay rate and x represents the number of hours worked.
The coefficient 12 represents the hourly pay rate of $12, and the constant term 50 represents the travel allowance of $50.