Find the Prime Factorization 42

Problem

42

Solution

1. Identify the smallest prime number that divides the given number. Since 42 is even, it is divisible by 2

42÷2=21

2. Divide the resulting quotient by its smallest prime factor. The number 21 is not divisible by 2 so we check 3

21÷3=7

3. Recognize that the remaining quotient is a prime number. Since 7 is prime, the process is complete.

7÷7=1

4. List all the prime factors used in the division process to represent the original number as a product.

42=2⋅3⋅7

Final Answer

42=2⋅3⋅7

Want more problems? Check here!