Substitute in the numbers
-2 would become positive when substituting it in for -a, because the two negatives cancel each other out.
(2 • 3^3) + (2 • 8)
First, solve in the parenthesis. Solve 3^3 and you get 27
(2 • 27) + (2 • -8)
Then, solve 2 times 27. It equals 54.
54 + (2 • -8)
Now, solve 2 times -8. It equals -16.
54 - 16
Finally, subtract 16 from 54.
The answer is 38.
If you have any further questions feel free to ask.
Hope this helps.