Factor Tree building procedure:
- Divide the given composite number by its smallest prime factor
- If the resulting quotient is a composite number, divide it by its smallest prime factor
- Repeat until resulting quotient is a prime number
Prime Factorization of 172: 172 = 2 x 2 x 43
Prime Factorization of 172 in Exponential Form: 172 = 22 x 43
Note: While the Prime Factorization of a Composite Number is unique, corresponding Factor Trees will differ if a different procedure is used