Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
When two triangles are similar (\(\Delta ABC \sim \Delta DEF\)), the ratios of their corresponding sides are equal.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \frac{AB}{DE} = \frac{BC}{EF} = \frac{AC}{DF} \]
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
1. Given \(2 AB = DE\). This can be written as the ratio:
\[ \frac{AB}{DE} = \frac{1}{2} \]
2. Since the triangles are similar, use the property of corresponding sides:
\[ \frac{AB}{DE} = \frac{BC}{EF} \]
3. Substitute the known values (\(\frac{1}{2}\) and \(BC = 8\)):
\[ \frac{1}{2} = \frac{8}{EF} \]
4. Cross-multiply to solve for \(EF\):
\[ EF = 8 \times 2 = 16 \text{ cm} \]
Step 4: Final Answer:
The length of \(EF\) is 16 cm.