Factors, in mathematics, are numbers that divide another number exactly without leaving a remainder. For example, factors of 12 include 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12 because these numbers divide 12 evenly. Every number has at least two factors: 1 and itself. Factors can be positive or negative since multiplying two negative numbers results in a positive product, but generally, positive factors are used. Factors are fundamental in understanding division, multiplication, prime factorization, and solving algebraic equations. Factors often come in pairs, called factor pairs, which multiply to the original number. Prime factors are those that are prime numbers themselves. Factors also play a role in identifying common factors and greatest common factors between numbers, useful in many mathematical problems and real-world applications.
