Q: What are the factor combinations of the number 362,731?
A:
Positive:
1 x 36273131 x 11701
Negative:
-1 x -362731-31 x -11701
A:
Positive:
1 x 36273131 x 11701
Negative:
-1 x -362731-31 x -11701
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 362,731, 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 | 362,731 | |
-1 | -362,731 |
When you multiply two negative numbers together, you get a positive number. That means both the positive and negative numbers are factors of 362,731.
Example:
1 x 362,731 = 362,731
and
-1 x -362,731 = 362,731
Notice both answers equal 362,731
With that explanation out of the way, let's continue. Next, we take the number 362,731 and divide it by 2:
362,731 ÷ 2 = 181,365.5
If the quotient is a whole number, then 2 and 181,365.5 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 | 362,731 | |
-1 | -362,731 |
Now, we try dividing 362,731 by 3:
362,731 ÷ 3 = 120,910.3333
If the quotient is a whole number, then 3 and 120,910.3333 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 | 362,731 | |
-1 | -362,731 |
Let's try dividing by 4:
362,731 ÷ 4 = 90,682.75
If the quotient is a whole number, then 4 and 90,682.75 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 | 362,731 | |
-1 | 362,731 |
If you did it right, you will end up with this table:
1 | 31 | 11,701 | 362,731 |
-1 | -31 | -11,701 | -362,731 |
Here are some more numbers to try:
Try the factor calculator