Question

evaluate the expression when a = -2 and x = 3.
a - 8x

Explanation:

Step1: Substitute the values of \(a\) and \(x\) into the expression

We are given the expression \(a - 8x\), and we know that \(a=-2\) and \(x = 3\). Substituting these values into the expression, we get \(-2-8\times3\).

Step2: Perform the multiplication first (order of operations)

According to the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS), we perform the multiplication before subtraction. So, we calculate \(8\times3 = 24\). Now the expression becomes \(-2-24\).

Step3: Perform the subtraction

Subtracting 24 from -2, we have \(-2-24=-26\).

Answer:

\(-26\)