Which expression represents the prime factorization of 12?

Prepare for CSET Multiple Subjects Subtest 2 in Math and Science. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which expression represents the prime factorization of 12?

Explanation:
Prime factorization expresses a number as a product of prime numbers. For 12, break it down by primes: 12 = 2 × 6, and 6 = 2 × 3, so 12 = 2 × 2 × 3. This uses only prime factors, which is what prime factorization requires. The other expressions include composite numbers (like 4 or 6), so they aren’t a true prime factorization. The order doesn’t matter, so 2×2×3 is the same as 3×2×2.

Prime factorization expresses a number as a product of prime numbers. For 12, break it down by primes: 12 = 2 × 6, and 6 = 2 × 3, so 12 = 2 × 2 × 3. This uses only prime factors, which is what prime factorization requires. The other expressions include composite numbers (like 4 or 6), so they aren’t a true prime factorization. The order doesn’t matter, so 2×2×3 is the same as 3×2×2.

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