The smallest number that has 1, 2, 4, and 8 as its factors is 8 itself. To understand why, let’s break it down:
1 is a factor of every integer, meaning it divides every number without leaving a remainder. The numbers 2, 4, and 8 are also factors of 8 since :
- 8 ÷ 1 = 8
- 8 ÷ 2 = 4
- 8 ÷ 4 = 2
- 8 ÷ 8 = 1
Each of these divisions results in a whole number, confirming that 8 is divisible by 1, 2, 4, and 8.
Additionally, if we look at multiples of 8, such as 16, 24, and so on, they also include these factors, but the question implies we are seeking the smallest such number. Therefore, 8 is the least common multiple of the factors 1, 2, 4, and 8. In conclusion, 8 stands out as the minimal number that embodies all these factors.