Question: Simplify. Remember to use absolute-value notation when necessary. If a root cannot be simplified, state this.
$$\sqrt{(8 - z)^2}$$
1. **State the problem:** Simplify the expression $$\sqrt{(8 - z)^2}$$.
2. **Recall the property:** The square root of a square is the absolute value of the original expression, i.e., $$\sqrt{x^2} = |x|$$.
3. **Apply the property:**
$$\sqrt{(8 - z)^2} = |8 - z|$$
4. **Explain absolute value:** The absolute value ensures the result is always non-negative, which matches the definition of the square root.
5. **Final answer:**
$$\boxed{|8 - z|}$$
This is the simplified form. No further simplification is possible without knowing the value of $$z$$.