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Find a missing factor

A missing factor is the unknown number in a multiplication equation, such as 6×□=426 \times \square = 42 or □×7=56\square \times 7 = 56; it represents the number in each group or the number of equal groups, depending on its position. The relationship between multiplication and division allows the unknown factor to be found and checked using a related fact, array, or equal-groups model, within products up to 100; symbolic algebra and larger-number generalizations are not included.

Detailed Explanation: Find a missing factor

A missing factor is the number that makes a multiplication equation true.

When one factor is missing, use division to find it because multiplication and division are related.

Example:

6×□=426 \times \square = 42
  1. Read the problem: We need to find the number that, when multiplied by 66, equals (42)(42).
  2. Use the related division fact:
42÷6=742 \div 6 = 7
  1. Write 77 in the box:
6×7=426 \times 7 = 42
  1. Check your answer by multiplying. Since 66 groups of 77 make (42)(42), the missing factor is 7\boxed{7}.

Learn by doing: Find a missing factor

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    Multiplication - Balance Equation - One Digit, Two Factors

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