Factor the expression using the GCF. 60-36

Question

I do not get it

Answer 1

Hi Tristan, the greatest common factor is the largest number that will divide both numbers evenly. As an example, 6 is a common factor because it divides both 60 and 36. However, it is not the greatest common factor.

 

If I break 60 into it's prime factors, I would get 2 * 2 * 3 * 5.

 

If I break 36 into it's prime factors, I would get 2 * 2 * 3 * 3.

 

The two number have the factors, 2, 2, and 3 in common.

 

The greatest common factor is then: 2 * 2 * 3, or 12.

 

The expression can be factored as:  12 ( 5 - 3)

 

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