What is the GCF of 56 and 42?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the greatest common factor (GCF) of the numbers 56 and 42. This involves finding the largest integer that divides both numbers without leaving a remainder.
Answer
$14$
Answer for screen readers
The greatest common factor of 56 and 42 is $14$.
Steps to Solve
- List the Factors of Each Number
First, we identify the factors of both numbers.
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Factors of 56:
- 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 14, 28, 56
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Factors of 42:
- 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 14, 21, 42
- Identify Common Factors
Next, we find the common factors between the two lists.
- Common factors of 56 and 42:
- 1, 2, 7, 14
- Determine the Greatest Common Factor
Lastly, we look for the largest number from the common factors.
- The greatest common factor is 14.
The greatest common factor of 56 and 42 is $14$.
More Information
The greatest common factor (GCF) is significant because it helps simplify fractions and is useful in various mathematical applications like factoring polynomials.
Tips
- Forgetting to list all factors: It's crucial to ensure that all factors are considered in both numbers.
- Not identifying all common factors: Sometimes, it can be easy to miss some common factors; double-check the lists to ensure all are identified.
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