Question

write the prime factorization of 10. 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

Divide 10 by the smallest prime number, 2: $10 \div 2 = 5$

Step2: Factor the quotient

5 is a prime number, so we stop here.

Step3: Write ordered prime factors

List primes from least to greatest, use exponents if a prime repeats (none repeat here).

Answer:

$2 \cdot 5$