In mathematics, factorization or factoring consists of writing a number or another mathematical object as a product of several factors, usually smaller or simpler objects of the same kind. For example, 3 × 5 is a factorization of the integer 15 and is a factorization of the polynomial
x² – 4.
We can take a natural number and write it as a product of other natural numbers which are called factors of the natural number.
• The factors of 30 are 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 10, 15 and 30.
• The prime factor form of 30 is 2 × 3 × 5.
Factoring is a useful skill in real life. Common applications include: dividing something into equal pieces, exchanging money, comparing prices, understanding time and making calculations during travel.
For example, an engineer designing a roller coaster would use polynomials to model the curves, while a civil engineer would use polynomials to design roads, buildings and other structures.
