Question

What is the prime factorization of 36?

Answer 1

D

Explanation:

In the prime factorization of 36 = 2² x 3², the two is used as a factor two times and the three is used as a factor twice. When checking to see if a number is prime or not, you need only divide by those prime numbers that when squared remain less than the given number.

Answer 2

2^2 * 3^2

Explanation:

36 = 6*6

But 6 is not a prime number so we need to break it down more

6 = 3*2

36 = 3*2 * 3*2

= 2*2*3*3

Writing in terms of exponents

= 2^2 * 3^2