Using prime factorization, find the HCF of 24, 36 and 40.

HCF (Highest Common Factor) of 24, 36 and 40 is the largest number that divides both 24, 36 and 40 exactly. 

Answer: HCF of 24, 36, 40 is 4.

We will find the prime factorization of 24, 36 and 40.

Explanation:

Prime Factorization of 24 = 2 × 2 × 2 × 3

Prime Factorization of 36 =  2 × 2 × 3 × 3

Prime Factorization of 40 = 2 × 2 × 2 × 5

We see that 2 × 2  appears in the prime factorization of 24, 36, and 40.

Therefore, HCF of 24, 36 and 40 = 2 × 2 = 4

Thus, HCF of 24, 36 and 40 is 4.