Question

Find the HCF of the following by prime factorization method:

$72,162$

Answer 1

Prime factorization of $72$ and $162$ by division method is shown as:

Prime factor of $72=2\times 2\times 2\times 3\times 3$

Prime factor of $162=2\times 3\times 3\times 3\times 3$

Common prime factors of $72$and $162$ are $2,3,3$

Therefore, H.C.F of $72$and $162$ is $2\times 3\times 3=18$.

Hence, HCF of $72$and $162$ by prime factorization method is $18$.