Introduction to Factors of numbers for Python
Learning how to find the factors of numbers is a key part of primary school mathematics. In this tutorial, we'll combine math with coding by writing a simple Python algorithm to list factors of a number. This exercise is perfect for kids, teachers, and beginner programmers who want to explore fun math coding activities while strengthening problem‑solving skills.
What Are Factors? | Maths Explanation for Python Kids
Factors are numbers that divide another number exactly, without leaving a remainder. For example:
- The factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.
- The factors of 15 are 1, 3, 5, and 15.
Understanding factors helps students build a foundation for topics like prime numbers, multiplication, and division.
Understanding Number Factors | Explanation for Python Kids
Other than prime numbers, every other number has at least
one factor - not considering 1 as factor.
Where there is just one factor, then this factor is the square
root of the number in question;
In this guide, we'll explore the math behind factors-of-numbers and walk through
how to code a Python algorithm for listing factors in a simple and fun way.
How to Find Factors of a Number | Explanation for Python Kids
To find the factors of a number, we can:
- Start at 1
- Check each number up to the chosen number
- See if it divides evenly (with no remainder)
If it does, that number is a factor.
This same method can be used in computer programming, making it a great way to combine maths learning with coding skills.
Python Algorithm to List Factors of a Number
Below is a simple Python example that shows how to list factors of a number using a loop. This is a great beginner Python maths project and works well for classroom demonstrations or self-learning.
Code Logic for Factorising Numbers in Python - Fun Maths Exercise
Actually, we've been doing factors over the last two demonstrations (lessons).
We can implement a Python algorithm for factorising a number by simply checking for our factors using the
square-root of number range.
We'll start from 1 (which is always a factor).
For each found factor, we'll get the corresponding complementary factor
by dividing the number (whose factors we are trying to find),
by the found factor.
This Math activity and Python script help primary school students understand factorization by listing all factors of a number.
Create a new Python Module File;
Call it listFactors.py.
Type out the adjoining Python code for finding the factors of a number.
How the Python Factors Algorithm Works
This Python factors algorithm checks every number from 1 up to the chosen number.
- The loop tests each value
- The modulus checks for a remainder
- If there is no remainder, the number is a factor
This helps students understand both number factors and basic programming logic at the same time.
Why Learn Factors Using Python?
Learning factors with Python helps students to:
- Understand maths concepts more clearly
- Practice logical thinking
- Learn how loops and conditions work
- Build confidence with coding for beginners
Using code to explore maths makes learning more interactive and engaging, especially for primary school learners.
Summary: Python Algorithm for Listing Factors of a Number
By combining Python programming with primary school math exercises, kids can learn how to list factors of numbers in a fun and practical way. This tutorial is a great starting point for anyone interested in beginner Python math projects or teaching math through coding.
So! Python Fun Practice Exercise - List Factors
As a fun practice exercise, feel free to try out your own different numbers, and see how the Python code lists the factors of those numbers.
Python Code for List Factors - Module File.
# A class
class Factors:
# Simulate a constructor
def __init__(self, candidate):
self.find_my_factors = candidate
self.found_factors = [1, self.find_my_factors] # 1 and itself are automatic factors
self.sqrt_range = ceil(sqrt(self.find_my_factors))
# Returns an array reference of the desired factors
def findFactors(self):
# Loop through 1 to 'find_my_factors' and test for divisibility.
for self.count in range(2, self.sqrt_range):
if self.find_my_factors % self.count == 0:
self.found_factors.append(self.count)
# Get the complementing factor by dividing 'find_my_factor' by variable count.
self.found_factors.append(int(self.find_my_factors / self.count))
# Sort the array in ascending order Not entirely necessary.
self.found_factors.sort()
return self.found_factors
Python Code for List Factors - Main Class.
from ListFactors import Factors
# Use the list factors module/class
test_guy = 48
factor_list = Factors(test_guy)
answer = factor_list.findFactors()
print("Factors of test_guy include:\n", " ".join(str(answer)))
print("\n\n")