Write the prime factorization of 6.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the prime factors of the number 6, which involves identifying the prime numbers that multiply together to give 6.
Answer
The prime factors of 6 are $2$ and $3$.
Answer for screen readers
The prime factors of 6 are $2$ and $3$.
Steps to Solve
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Identify the number to factor
We are looking for the prime factors of the number 6. -
Start with the smallest prime number
The smallest prime number is 2. Check if 2 is a factor of 6.
Since $6 \div 2 = 3$, we can say that 2 is a prime factor. -
Check the result for prime factors
Now we have 3 left after dividing. Check if 3 is a prime number.
Yes, 3 is a prime number. So, we can say that 3 is also a prime factor. -
Write down the prime factorization
The prime factors of 6 can now be written together as a product:
$$ 6 = 2 \times 3 $$
The prime factors of 6 are $2$ and $3$.
More Information
The number 6 is the product of the two smallest prime numbers: 2 and 3. Understanding prime factorization helps with concepts in number theory and can be useful in simplifying fractions or finding greatest common divisors.
Tips
- Confusing composite numbers with prime numbers: Remember that prime numbers have only two distinct positive divisors, 1 and themselves.
- Forgetting to check if the result from division is a prime number.
