What will 2 ** 3 output?

The expression 2 ** 3 represents exponentiation in Python. The ** operator raises the number on the left (the base) to the power of the number on the right (the exponent). In this case, the base is 2 and the exponent is 3.

To calculate this, you take 2 multiplied by itself 3 times:

• First, you calculate 2 * 2, which equals 4.

• Then, you multiply that result by 2 once more: 4 * 2 equals 8.

Therefore, 2 ** 3 equals 8, which confirms that the correct answer is indeed 8.

This functionality of exponentiation is essential in programming and mathematics, allowing for the efficient calculation of powers. The ability to raise numbers to a specified power is widely used in various applications, including mathematical calculations and algorithms.