G S Rehill's Interactive Maths Software Series - "Building a Strong Foundation in Mathematics" from mathsteacher.com.au.

 

Year 7 Interactive Maths - Second Edition


Factors

A whole number that divides exactly into another whole number is called a factor of that number.

For example, 20 ÷ 4 = 5
So, 4 is a factor of 20 as it divides exactly into 20.

Likewise, 20 ÷ 5 = 4
So, 5 is a factor of 20 as it divides exactly into 20.


Note:

If a number can be expressed as a product of two whole numbers, then the whole numbers are called factors of that number.

20 = 1 × 20 = 2 × 10 = 4 × 5
So, the factors of 20 are 1, 2, 4, 5, 10 and 20.


Example 5

List all the factors of 42.

Solution:

To find the factors of 42, think of those pairs of whole numbers that when multiplied equal 42.

So, the factors of 42 are 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 14, 21 and 42.


Note:

Since 5 does not divide exactly into 42, 5 is not a factor of 42.


Example 6

Is 7 a factor 15?

Solution:

Since 7 does not divide exactly into 15, 7 is not a factor of 15.


Key Terms

factor, factors

 

Study Another Topic in Chapter 3: Multiples and Factors

Multiples ] Common Multiples ] Lowest Common Multiple ] [ Factors ] Common Factors ] Highest Common Factor ] Prime Numbers ] Problem Solving Unit ] Projects ] Symbols ] Index ]

 

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