a. \( (4 x)^{3} \)

Let’s take a trip back in time to the 16th century when mathematicians like François Viète began to formalize algebraic notation. This was an era when expressions like \( (4x)^{3} \) would have looked like magic spells transforming numbers! Today, we can simply expand this expression using the power of exponents: \( (4x)^{3} = 4^{3} \cdot x^{3} = 64x^{3} \). Now, if you find yourself multiplying or expanding larger expressions, remember the "power of a product" rule to prevent mishaps. It states that you can distribute the exponent to both parts inside the parentheses. Just be careful not to rush and accidentally square or cube the entire expression incorrectly—always double-check your work for those pesky signs or coefficients!