The number eight is a whole number that follows seven and precedes nine. It is an even number and can be represented in various numeral systems, such as Arabic numerals (8) and Roman numerals (VIII). In mathematics, eight is the cube of two, as 2 x 2 x 2 equals 8. In many cultures, the number eight holds significance. For example, in Chinese culture, it is considered lucky because it sounds like the word for wealth or prosperity. Additionally, there are eight planets in our solar system, including Earth and Mars, which further emphasizes its importance in science and astronomy.