What is the meaning of finding the factors of 42?

Finding the factors of 42 involves identifying all the whole numbers that can be multiplied together to produce 42. These factors include 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 14, 21, and 42. Understanding these factors is useful in various mathematical applications, such as simplifying fractions, solving equations, and finding common denominators. Essentially, it helps in understanding the divisibility and properties of the number 42.