Use a calculator to approximate the following value. \( e^{8} \)

Did you know that the number \( e \), approximately 2.718, is often referred to as Euler's number? It pops up in various fields like calculus, complex analysis, and more—making it a real superstar in the world of mathematics! So, when you calculate \( e^8 \), you're not just crunching numbers; you're tapping into a foundational constant that influences exponential growth and decay in real-world scenarios, from population growth to finance! Now, if you type \( e^{8} \) into your calculator, you should get around 2980.96. This means that if you started with one unit of something and it grew exponentially at a rate influenced by \( e \) over time, you'd have nearly 2981 units after that period! Quite a leap, isn't it?