Download Prime factorization using subsequent division

Name__________________________
Date: _____________________
Prime Factorization
What is it?
Breaking-down a composite number by the prime numbers it is made of.
Why do we use it?
It can be used to find the Greatest Common Factor (GCF) and the Least Common
Multiple (LCM) of two or more numbers, to compare fractions with unlike
denominators, and for recognizing patterns.
This is how it’s done:
Subsequent Division (monkey division)
Prime #’s: 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17
*Smallest primes first ALWAYS!
56
Write the answer using
exponents:
You’re not done ‘til
you get to 1!
Prime factorization is written using exponents, so instead of
2  2  2  7 we write…
The Prime Factorization of 56 is: ________________