Final answer:
To evaluate the expression ab with a = 6 and b = 8, simply multiply the two numbers together. The result of 6 times 8 is 48, which is the product of the given values.
Step-by-step explanation:
The expression ab needs to be evaluated given that a = 6 and b = 8. Evaluating this expression requires simple multiplication of the given values. Multiplication is one of the basic operations in mathematics, and it involves combining groups of the same size.
To find the product of a and b, we multiply the two numbers:
Step-by-Step Calculation
6 × 8 = 48
This is a straightforward calculation, and there are no terms to eliminate to simplify the algebra, hence step 6 of the reference guide is not applicable here. Once the multiplication is completed, we can check the answer to see if it is reasonable, which is mentioned in step 7. Indeed, since both numbers are positive and the multiplication of two positive numbers is also positive, the resultant 48 is reasonable.
Evaluating expressions involves finding the numerical value of a mathematical expression by substituting specific values for variables. It often follows the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS), considering parentheses, exponents, multiplication and division from left to right, and addition and subtraction from left to right.