Q: What are the factor combinations of the number 431,855?
A:
Positive:
1 x 4318555 x 86371
Negative:
-1 x -431855-5 x -86371
A:
Positive:
1 x 4318555 x 86371
Negative:
-1 x -431855-5 x -86371
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 431,855, 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 | 431,855 | |
-1 | -431,855 |
When you multiply two negative numbers together, you get a positive number. That means both the positive and negative numbers are factors of 431,855.
Example:
1 x 431,855 = 431,855
and
-1 x -431,855 = 431,855
Notice both answers equal 431,855
With that explanation out of the way, let's continue. Next, we take the number 431,855 and divide it by 2:
431,855 ÷ 2 = 215,927.5
If the quotient is a whole number, then 2 and 215,927.5 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 | 431,855 | |
-1 | -431,855 |
Now, we try dividing 431,855 by 3:
431,855 ÷ 3 = 143,951.6667
If the quotient is a whole number, then 3 and 143,951.6667 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 | 431,855 | |
-1 | -431,855 |
Let's try dividing by 4:
431,855 ÷ 4 = 107,963.75
If the quotient is a whole number, then 4 and 107,963.75 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 | 431,855 | |
-1 | 431,855 |
If you did it right, you will end up with this table:
1 | 5 | 86,371 | 431,855 |
-1 | -5 | -86,371 | -431,855 |
Here are some more numbers to try:
Try the factor calculator