Explanation:

- Let's start by considering the original area of the rectangle, which is the product of its length and breadth.

- When the length is increased by 8% and the breadth is decreased by 10%, the new dimensions are 1.08 times the original length and 0.90 times the original breadth.

- To find the new area, multiply these factors with the original area: (1.08) * (0.90) = 0.972.

- Hence, the new area is 97.2% of the original area.

- This means there is a net change, specifically a decrease, of 2.8% from the original.

The correct option is:

- Option 4: Decrease by 2.8%