factor

factor, in arithmetic, any number that divides a given number evenly, i.e., without any remainder. The factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12. Similarly in algebra, any one of the algebraic expressions multiplied by another to form a product is a factor of that product, e.g., a+b and a−b are factors of a²−b ², since (a+b)(a−b)=a²−b². In general, if r is a root of a polynomial equation f(x)=0, then (x−r) is a factor of the polynomial f(x).

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factor

In multiplication, one of two or more numerical or algebraic components of a product. A whole number's factors are the whole numbers that divide evenly into it (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12 are factors of 12). To factor a counting number means to break it down into its prime number factors. To factor a polynomial is to find its prime polynomial factors, a basic procedure for solving algebraic equations. According to the fundamental theorem of arithmetic, the prime factorization of any number or polynomial is unique.

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factor

A number that divides evenly into another number. For example, 3 and 4 are factors of 12. See factorial and IFP.

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factor

1. Maths

a. one of two or more integers or polynomials whose product is a given integer or polynomial

b. an integer or polynomial that can be exactly divided into another integer or polynomial

2. Med any of several substances that participate in the clotting of blood

3. Law, Commerce a person who acts on another's behalf, esp one who transacts business for another

4. former name for a gene

5. Commercial law a person to whom goods are consigned for sale and who is paid a factorage

6. (in Scotland) the manager of an estate

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factor - A quantity which is multiplied by another quantity. See also divisor.