The ASTM grain size number (G) is related to the number of grains per square inch at 100$\times$ magnification (N) by the formula:
\[
N = 2^{(G - 1)}
\]
Given: \( G = 8 \)
Substitute into the formula:
\[
N = 2^{(8 - 1)} = 2^7 = 128
\]
Therefore, at 100$\times$ magnification, there would be approximately 128 grains per square inch.
This standard method is commonly used in metallography to estimate grain sizes quickly and accurately.