Q: What are the factor combinations of the number 388,639?
A:
Positive:
1 x 38863941 x 9479
Negative:
-1 x -388639-41 x -9479
A:
Positive:
1 x 38863941 x 9479
Negative:
-1 x -388639-41 x -9479
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 388,639, 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 | 388,639 | |
-1 | -388,639 |
When you multiply two negative numbers together, you get a positive number. That means both the positive and negative numbers are factors of 388,639.
Example:
1 x 388,639 = 388,639
and
-1 x -388,639 = 388,639
Notice both answers equal 388,639
With that explanation out of the way, let's continue. Next, we take the number 388,639 and divide it by 2:
388,639 ÷ 2 = 194,319.5
If the quotient is a whole number, then 2 and 194,319.5 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 | 388,639 | |
-1 | -388,639 |
Now, we try dividing 388,639 by 3:
388,639 ÷ 3 = 129,546.3333
If the quotient is a whole number, then 3 and 129,546.3333 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 | 388,639 | |
-1 | -388,639 |
Let's try dividing by 4:
388,639 ÷ 4 = 97,159.75
If the quotient is a whole number, then 4 and 97,159.75 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 | 388,639 | |
-1 | 388,639 |
If you did it right, you will end up with this table:
1 | 41 | 9,479 | 388,639 |
-1 | -41 | -9,479 | -388,639 |
Here are some more numbers to try:
Try the factor calculator