To predict the crude steel production in the year 2008, first, you have to determine the value of x to use.
If 1980 is considered year zero (x=0), then you have to calculate the difference between 2008 and 1980 to determine the value of x:
Counting from 1980 up, the year 2008 is the 28th year.
Next, replace the function with x=28 and calculate the value of f(x)
Solve the exponent, then the multiplications, and finally the additions:
The crude steel production in 2008 will be 29.064.