Q: What are the factor combinations of the number 785?
A:
Positive:
1 x 7855 x 157
Negative:
-1 x -785-5 x -157
A:
Positive:
1 x 7855 x 157
Negative:
-1 x -785-5 x -157
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 785, 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 | 785 | |
-1 | -785 |
When you multiply two negative numbers together, you get a positive number. That means both the positive and negative numbers are factors of 785.
Example:
1 x 785 = 785
and
-1 x -785 = 785
Notice both answers equal 785
With that explanation out of the way, let's continue. Next, we take the number 785 and divide it by 2:
785 ÷ 2 = 392.5
If the quotient is a whole number, then 2 and 392.5 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 | 785 | |
-1 | -785 |
Now, we try dividing 785 by 3:
785 ÷ 3 = 261.6667
If the quotient is a whole number, then 3 and 261.6667 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 | 785 | |
-1 | -785 |
Let's try dividing by 4:
785 ÷ 4 = 196.25
If the quotient is a whole number, then 4 and 196.25 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 | 785 | |
-1 | 785 |
If you did it right, you will end up with this table:
1 | 5 | 157 | 785 |
-1 | -5 | -157 | -785 |
Here are some more numbers to try:
Try the factor calculator