Question

evaluate $8 \cdot 3^x$ for (a) $x = -2$ and (b) $x = 3$. write your answers in simplest form.
a. the expression is $\square$ when $x = -2$.
b. the expression is $\square$ when $x = 3$.

Explanation:

Step1: Substitute $x=-2$ into expression

$8 \cdot 3^{-2}$

Step2: Rewrite negative exponent as reciprocal

$8 \cdot \frac{1}{3^2} = 8 \cdot \frac{1}{9}$

Step3: Calculate the product

$\frac{8}{9}$

Step4: Substitute $x=3$ into expression

$8 \cdot 3^{3}$

Step5: Evaluate the power

$8 \cdot 27$

Step6: Calculate the product

$216$

Answer:

a. $\frac{8}{9}$
b. $216$