prime factor

Definitions

1. 1

   A factor of a given integer which is also a prime number.

   • Hence, the prime factors of 100 are 1, 2, 2, 5, 5, and 1 × 2 × 2 × 5 × 5 = 100. From the above illustration, we derive the following rule for finding all the prime factors of any composite number.
2. 2

   Used other than figuratively or idiomatically

   Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see prime, factor.

   • It became apparent to me that Mr. Genthner's open profession of being gay was the prime factor in his conviction and sentencing.
3. 3

   To reduce an integer to its set of prime factors.

   • For example, the number 30, which is not prime, can be prime factored as 2 x 3 x 5.
   • Another variation of the technique for changing radicals to simplest form is to prime factor the radicand and then to look for perfect squares in exponential form.

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