Question

write the prime factorization of 15. use exponents when appropriate and order the factors from least to greatest (for example, $2^2 \cdot 3 \cdot 5$).

Explanation:

Step1: Find smallest prime factor

15 is divisible by 3, so $15 = 3 \times 5$

Step2: Check remaining factors

3 and 5 are both prime numbers, no further factorization needed.

Step3: Order from least to greatest

List primes in ascending order, no exponents needed as each occurs once.

Answer:

$3 \cdot 5$