7. Identify the degree of each polynomial and what the polynomial could be used to represent (length/perimeter, area, or volume) \[ (x-4)(x+8) \]

Step 1 ：The degree of a polynomial is the highest power of the variable in the polynomial. In this case, we need to expand the polynomial to find out its degree.

Step 2 ：The polynomial is \((x - 4)*(x + 8)\).

Step 3 ：When expanded, the polynomial becomes \(x^2 + 4x - 32\).

Step 4 ：The degree of the polynomial is 2. Therefore, the polynomial could be used to represent an area.

Step 5 ：Final Answer: The degree of the polynomial \((x-4)(x+8)\) is \(\boxed{2}\), and it could be used to represent \(\boxed{area}\).