Factors and Multiples
⭐ MasteredFactors divide evenly into a number: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 12 are factors of 12. Multiples are what you get by multiplying: 3, 6, 9, 12…
Every number is a factor of itself.
All about Factors and Multiples
A factor is a number that divides exactly into another number with no remainder. The factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 12. A multiple is what you get when you multiply a number by a whole number. The multiples of 3 are 3, 6, 9, 12 and so on.
Every number is a factor and a multiple of itself. Finding factors is useful for simplifying fractions and for working out how to share things into equal groups.
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Real-life uses of Factors and Multiples
- Simplifying fractions such as 6/12 to 1/2
- Working out how to arrange objects in equal rows
- Finding when two events with different cycles will happen together
Frequently asked questions about Factors and Multiples
What is the difference between a factor and a multiple?
A factor divides into a number exactly. A multiple is a number that a given number divides into exactly.
What is the highest common factor (HCF)?
The largest factor that two or more numbers share. The HCF of 12 and 18 is 6.
What is the lowest common multiple (LCM)?
The smallest number that is a multiple of two or more numbers. The LCM of 4 and 6 is 12.