1. The problem asks us to write the phrase "the total of 6 and 10" as a mathematical expression. 2. "Total" means the sum or addition of numbers. 3. So, the expression for the total of 6 and 10 is simply the sum: $$6 + 10$$. 4. This expression represents adding the two numbers together to find their total. 5. Evaluating the expression: $$6 + 10 = 16$$. 6. Therefore, the expression is $$6 + 10$$ and the total is 16.