In a book it states $\ln(2e^2)$ is the same as $\ln(2\cdot 2^2)=\ln8$.
When I reduce the expression $\ln(2e^2)$, I get the result $\ln2+2$. This seems right, since you use logarithm rule $\log(ab)=\log a+\log b$, so you get $$\ln 2+\ln e^2=\ln 2+2\ln e=\ln2+2\cdot 1=\ln 2+2$$
But why in the world would the book write the answer as $\ln(2\cdot 2^2)=\ln 8$?
It has no logical explanation for me, help!