Every whole number can be built from prime numbers - they're like the atoms of maths! Understanding factors (what divides into a number) and multiples (the times tables) helps with everything from simplifying fractions to solving real-world problems like tiling floors and scheduling events.
This introduction covers Building Blocks of Numbers within Factors, Multiples & Primes for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Factors, Multiples & Primes in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 14 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 1 of 9 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Factors, Multiples & Primes
Which of these numbers is prime?
Explain why 51 is not a prime number.
Quick recall flashcards
Factor
A number that divides exactly into another number with no remainder.
Example: Factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12
Multiple
A number in the times table of another number.
Example: Multiples of 5 are 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30...