1. The problem asks to evaluate $2^{-3}$. 2. Recall the rule for negative exponents: $a^{-n} = \frac{1}{a^n}$ where $a \neq 0$ and $n$ is a positive integer. 3. Applying this rule, we get: $$2^{-3} = \frac{1}{2^3}$$ 4. Calculate $2^3$: $$2^3 = 2 \times 2 \times 2 = 8$$ 5. Substitute back: $$2^{-3} = \frac{1}{8}$$ 6. Therefore, the value of $2^{-3}$ is $\frac{1}{8}$. Final answer: C 1/8