b) \( 2^{3} \times 8^{2} \)

Did you know that the expression \( 8^2 \) can be rewritten using base 2? Since \( 8 \) is equal to \( 2^3 \), \( 8^2 \) can become \( (2^3)^2 = 2^{6} \). Therefore, your expression transforms into \( 2^3 \times 2^{6} \), which simplifies beautifully to \( 2^{3+6} = 2^{9} \). Now, let's put that into perspective! Evaluating \( 2^9 \) gives you 512. This means that the combined product of \( 2^{3} \times 8^{2} \) ultimately showcases the power of exponents and how they can simplify calculations, especially handy in fields like computer science where binary numbers soar high in powers of two!