The sum of the binomial coefficients in the expansion of $(1 + x)^8$ equals _____.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept: Substitute $x = 1$ into the expansion $(1 + x)^8 = \sum \binom{8}{r} x^r$, so that the right-hand side reduces exactly to the sum of the binomial coefficients.
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Correct Answer: 256