6th Grade · The Number System
Prime Factor
6.NS.B.4
Definition
A factor of a number that is itself a prime number (only divisible by 1 and itself).
Examples
- 12 = 2 × 2 × 3, so its prime factors are 2 and 3.
- A factor tree breaks a number down into its prime factors.
Key rule
A prime factor can't be broken down any further.
Memory hook
Break it down until every piece is prime.