Question

write the prime factorization of 45. use exponents when appropriate and order the factors from least to greatest (for example, $2^2 \cdot 3 \cdot 5$).

Explanation:

Step1: Divide 45 by smallest prime

$45 \div 3 = 15$

Step2: Divide quotient by 3 again

$15 \div 3 = 5$

Step3: 5 is prime, stop here

Identify prime factors: $3, 3, 5$

Step4: Write with exponents, order least to greatest

Combine repeated factors: $3^2 \cdot 5$

Answer:

$3^2 \cdot 5$