What Is a Multiple in Math

What Are Multiples and Factors in Math?

Learn exactly how to use multiples and factors in math.

Can you name a multiple of 3? How about a factor of 20?

If these math terms have you scratching your head, don’t worry! There are quick and easy definitions of both of these terms so that you can answer either of the above questions with no problems at all!

Both of these terms are related to multiplication. So, put your multiplication hat on, and let’s get started.

What Is a Multiple in Math?

A multiple in math are the numbers you get when you multiply a certain number by an integer.

For example, multiples of 5 are: 10, 15, 20, 25, 30…etc.

Multiples of 7 are: 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49…etc.

Can you name some multiples of 3 now?

An easy way to remember the multiples of single-digit numbers is by skip-counting. For example, if you count by 2s, you’ll know the multiples of 2.

Remember, multiples can also be negative. So, some other multiples of 5 are: -5, -10, -15…etc.

What Is a Factor in Math?

A factor in math are numbers you can multiply to get a certain number.

For example, to get the number 8, you can multiply 2 x 4. So, 2 and 4 are factors of 8.

8 x 1 also equals 8, so 1 and 8 are also factors of 8.

Can you name some factors of 20 now?

Did you know? Some numbers, specifically prime numbers, can’t be factored. For example, try finding the factors for the number 7. You can only find the factors 7 and 1. But, every number can be factored into 1 and itself, so these are known as trivial factors. Can you think of any other prime numbers that can’t be factored?

As you can see, once explained, multiples and factors in math are quite simple.
Now, all you have to do is remember the definitions!