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# 3.1: Factoring Composite Numbers

Created by: CK-12

This activity is intended to supplement Algebra I, Chapter 2, Lesson 1.

## Problem 1 - A Prime Number

Write whatever you know about prime numbers in each section. Use words and numbers. Add more than one thing to a section if you know a lot about it!

Definition: Fun facts:
• a number greater than 1 that...
• $2$ is the only even prime.
Examples Non-examples
• $2, 3, \ldots$
• $-7, 0, \ldots$

## Problem 2 – Exploring a Factor Tree for a Composite Number

Have you ever made a factor tree for a number? If so, then you already know what the prime numbers are. You may or may not know how to write the prime factorization using exponents rather than repeated multiplication. We will explore this skill using the TI-84 calculator together.

Here is a factor tree for the composite number $24$.

Its prime factorization is $24 = 2 \cdot 2 \cdot 2 \cdot 3$ or $24 = 2^3 \cdot 3$.

• Why is three the exponent for the factor $2$?
• Is $24$ a prime number? Explain.

## Problem 3 – Exploring Division as a Means to Finding Prime Factors

You can use also division to find the prime factors of a number. Follow the steps to find the prime factorization of $30$.

Think of a number that divides $30$ evenly, like $3$. Divide $30$ by $3$.

Draw a factor tree. Circle any factors that are prime (those cannot be divided further).

Think of a number that divides $10$ evenly, like $2$. Divide $10$ by $2$.

Expand the factor tree. Circle any factors that are prime. When none of the factors can be divided further, you have found the prime factorization. In this case, $30 = 2 \cdot 3 \cdot 5$.

• Why does the factorization of the number $30$ NOT have any exponents?

Use division to find the prime factorization of $36$. Write your answer in exponent form. Show your work as a factor tree. $36 = \underline{\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;}$

## Problem 4 – Factoring on your own

Use the methods above to find the prime factorization of each number. Show your work as a factor tree and write the factorization in exponent form.

1. $27 = \underline{\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;}$
2. $56 = \underline{\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;}$
3. $72 = \underline{\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;\;}$

Feb 22, 2012

Oct 31, 2014