Numbers and algebra

Greatest common factor

The largest positive integer that divides each supplied integer without a remainder.

Common notationgcf(a,b)

In one sentence

What does Greatest common factor mean?

The largest positive integer that divides each supplied integer without a remainder.

How it is written

gcf(a,b)

A compact example

The greatest common factor of 18 and 24 is 6.

Other names and search terms

greatest common divisor, gcd.

Where this fits

When should you learn Greatest common factor?

The first encounter is not the final level. Many ideas begin visually, become computational in high school and become formal in college.

  1. 1Pre-high schoolUsually introduced
  2. 2High schoolGreater depth
  3. 3CollegeGreater depth
  4. 4AdvancedGreater depth
Typical subjects
  • Arithmetic
  • Algebra
Know first
  • Basic arithmetic
What it unlocks
  • Equations
  • Functions
  • Precalculus

Clear answers

Questions about Greatest common factor

What does Greatest common factor mean in mathematics?

The largest positive integer that divides each supplied integer without a remainder.

How is Greatest common factor written?

A common notation is gcf(a,b).

What is an example of Greatest common factor?

The greatest common factor of 18 and 24 is 6.

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