Q: What are the factor combinations of the number 286,423?
A:
Positive:
1 x 28642343 x 6661
Negative:
-1 x -286423-43 x -6661
A:
Positive:
1 x 28642343 x 6661
Negative:
-1 x -286423-43 x -6661
Unfortunately, there's not simple formula to identifying all of the factors of a number and it can be a tedious process when trying to identify the divisors of larger numbers. To find the factor combinations of the number 286,423, it is easier to work with a table - it's called factoring from the outside in.
We start by creating a table and writing 1 on the left side and then the number we're trying to find the factors for on the right side in a table. Then, below that, write the numbers as a negative as well.
1 | 286,423 | |
-1 | -286,423 |
When you multiply two negative numbers together, you get a positive number. That means both the positive and negative numbers are factors of 286,423.
Example:
1 x 286,423 = 286,423
and
-1 x -286,423 = 286,423
Notice both answers equal 286,423
With that explanation out of the way, let's continue. Next, we take the number 286,423 and divide it by 2:
286,423 ÷ 2 = 143,211.5
If the quotient is a whole number, then 2 and 143,211.5 are factors. In this case, the quotient is not a whole number. Don't write anything down and try the next divisor.
Here is what our table should look like at this step:
1 | 286,423 | |
-1 | -286,423 |
Now, we try dividing 286,423 by 3:
286,423 ÷ 3 = 95,474.3333
If the quotient is a whole number, then 3 and 95,474.3333 are factors. In this case, the quotient is not a whole number. Don't write anything down and try the next divisor.
Here is what our table should look like at this step:
1 | 286,423 | |
-1 | -286,423 |
Let's try dividing by 4:
286,423 ÷ 4 = 71,605.75
If the quotient is a whole number, then 4 and 71,605.75 are factors. In this case, the quotient is not a whole number. Don't write anything down and try the next divisor.
Here is what our table should look like at this step:
1 | 286,423 | |
-1 | 286,423 |
If you did it right, you will end up with this table:
1 | 43 | 6,661 | 286,423 |
-1 | -43 | -6,661 | -286,423 |
Here are some more numbers to try:
Try the factor calculator