To perform a prime factorization of the number 50, you can break it down into its prime factors.
-
Start by dividing 50 by the smallest prime number, which is 2: \[ 50 \div 2 = 25 \] So, 2 is a prime factor.
-
Next, factor 25. The smallest prime number that can divide 25 is 5: \[ 25 \div 5 = 5 \] So, 5 is a prime factor.
-
Finally, since 5 is also a prime number, you can express this as: \[ 5 \div 5 = 1 \]
Putting this all together, the prime factorization of 50 is: \[ 50 = 2 \times 5 \times 5 \text{ or } 50 = 2 \times 5^2 \]
Thus, the prime factors of 50 are 2 and 5.