Q: What are the factor combinations of the number 485?
A:
Positive:
1 x 4855 x 97
Negative:
-1 x -485-5 x -97
A:
Positive:
1 x 4855 x 97
Negative:
-1 x -485-5 x -97
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 485, 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 | 485 | |
-1 | -485 |
When you multiply two negative numbers together, you get a positive number. That means both the positive and negative numbers are factors of 485.
Example:
1 x 485 = 485
and
-1 x -485 = 485
Notice both answers equal 485
With that explanation out of the way, let's continue. Next, we take the number 485 and divide it by 2:
485 ÷ 2 = 242.5
If the quotient is a whole number, then 2 and 242.5 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 | 485 | |
-1 | -485 |
Now, we try dividing 485 by 3:
485 ÷ 3 = 161.6667
If the quotient is a whole number, then 3 and 161.6667 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 | 485 | |
-1 | -485 |
Let's try dividing by 4:
485 ÷ 4 = 121.25
If the quotient is a whole number, then 4 and 121.25 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 | 485 | |
-1 | 485 |
If you did it right, you will end up with this table:
1 | 5 | 97 | 485 |
-1 | -5 | -97 | -485 |
Here are some more numbers to try:
Try the factor calculator