Prime Factor
Prime Numbers & Factorization
Every composite number can be written as a unique product of prime numbers. This is known as the Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic.
What is a Prime Number?
A prime number is a natural number greater than 1 that has no positive divisors other than 1 and itself. Examples: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13...
How Factorization Works
To find the prime factors of a number, keep dividing it by the smallest possible prime number.
Example: 12
12 ÷ 2 = 6
6 ÷ 2 = 3
3 is prime.
Factors: 2 × 2 × 3 (or 2² × 3)
12 ÷ 2 = 6
6 ÷ 2 = 3
3 is prime.
Factors: 2 × 2 × 3 (or 2² × 3)
Applications
- Cryptography: Large prime numbers form the basis of RSA encryption, which secures the internet.
- LCM/GCD: Prime factorization is the method used to calculate Least Common Multiples and Greatest Common Divisors.
FAQ
Is 1 a prime number?
No. By definition, a prime number must be greater than 1.