1. Course 1 4-2 Factors and Prime Factorization You can use exponents to write prime factorizations. Remember that an exponent tells you how many times the base is a factor. Helpful Hint

2. Course 1 4-2 Factors and Prime Factorization Additional Example 2B: Writing Prime Factorizations Method 2: Use a ladder diagram. Choose a prime factor of 45 to begin. Keep dividing by prime factors until the quotient is 1. 345 3 1 15 5 5 45 = 3 3 5 545 3 1 9 3 3 45 = 5 3 3 The prime factorization of 45 is 3 3 5 or 3 2 5. Write the prime factorization of 45.

3. Course 1 4-2 Factors and Prime Factorization Check It Out: Example 2B Write the prime factorization of 36. Method 2: Use a ladder diagram. Choose a prime factor of 36 to begin. Keep dividing by prime factors until the quotient is 1. 336 2 1 12 6 2 36 = 3 2 2 3 The prime factorization of 36 is 3 2 2 3, or 3 2 2 3. 336 3 1 12 2 4 36 = 3 3 2 2 3 3 2 2