28 as a product of prime factors
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to find the prime factorization of the number 28. This involves breaking down the number into the prime numbers that, when multiplied together, will give the original number.
Answer
The prime factorization of 28 is $2^2 \times 7$.
Answer for screen readers
The prime factorization of 28 is $2^2 \times 7$.
Steps to Solve
- Divide by the smallest prime number Start by dividing the number 28 by the smallest prime number, which is 2.
$$ 28 \div 2 = 14 $$
- Continue with the result Now take the result, 14, and divide it by 2 again.
$$ 14 \div 2 = 7 $$
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Identify the next prime number The number 7 is a prime number, meaning it cannot be divided by any other number apart from 1 and itself.
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Write the prime factorization Now that we have finished our divisions, we can write the prime factorization of 28. We have used 2 two times and 7 once.
Thus, the prime factorization can be expressed as:
$$ 28 = 2^2 \times 7 $$
The prime factorization of 28 is $2^2 \times 7$.
More Information
The prime factorization shows how a composite number can be expressed as a product of prime numbers. Prime numbers are the building blocks of all natural numbers. In this case, 2 and 7 are the only prime factors of 28.
Tips
- Confusing composite numbers with prime numbers. Remember, prime numbers have only two factors: 1 and themselves.
- Overlooking higher prime numbers when a smaller prime could still divide the number. Always start with the smallest prime.
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