Question

which of the following shows the prime factorization of 36 using exponential notation?
$2^2 \cdot 3^2$
$4 \cdot 9$
$2 \cdot 3^2$
$6^2$

Explanation:

Step1: Factor 36 into primes

$36 = 2 \times 2 \times 3 \times 3$

Step2: Rewrite with exponents

$36 = 2^2 \cdot 3^2$

Step3: Eliminate non-prime options

Options $4 \cdot 9$, $2 \cdot 3^2$, $6^2$ use non-prime factors or incomplete primes.

Answer:

$2^2 \cdot 3^2$