Prime Factorization

Definition of Prime Factorization

  • Prime factorization is to write a composite number as a product of its prime factors.

Examples of Prime Factorization

  • The prime factorization of 48 is 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 3 = .

Solved Example on Prime Factorization

Choose the product that represents the prime factorization of 108.

           Choices:

A. 3 ´ 3 ´ 3 ´ 2 ´ 2 ´ 2

B.

C. 3 ´ 3 ´ 3 ´ 2 ´ 2

D. 3 ´ 3 ´ 12

Correct Answer: C

Solution:

Step 1: 108 can be expressed as prime factors as follows.

Step 2: 108 = 3 ´ 3 ´ 3 ´ 2 ´ 2.

                     

Related Terms for Prime Factorization

  • Composite Number
  • Product
  • Factor

 

Additional Links for Prime Factorization