Question

write the prime factorization of 16. use exponents when appropriate and order the factors from least to greatest (for example, $2^2 \cdot 3 \cdot 5$).

Explanation:

Step1: Divide 16 by smallest prime

$16 \div 2 = 8$

Step2: Divide quotient by 2 again

$8 \div 2 = 4$

Step3: Divide new quotient by 2

$4 \div 2 = 2$

Step4: Divide final quotient by 2

$2 \div 2 = 1$

Step5: Count repeated prime factors

2 is used 4 times, so $2^4$

Answer:

$2^4$