Question

the factor rainbow for the number 42 is shown.
which three factor pairs of 42 contain a factor that is a prime number?
image of factor rainbow with numbers 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 14, 21, 42
options:
1 and 42
2 and 21
3 and 14
6 and 7

Explanation:

Step1: Recall prime number definition

A prime number is a number greater than 1 that has no positive divisors other than 1 and itself. Prime numbers among factors of 42: 2, 3, 7.

Step2: Analyze each factor pair

• 1 and 42: 1 is not prime, 42 is not prime. So this pair does not have a prime factor.
• 2 and 21: 2 is a prime number (divisors 1 and 2). So this pair has a prime factor.
• 3 and 14: 3 is a prime number (divisors 1 and 3). So this pair has a prime factor.
• 6 and 7: 7 is a prime number (divisors 1 and 7). So this pair has a prime factor.

Answer:

2 and 21, 3 and 14, 6 and 7