256
256 is a even composite number that follows 255 and precedes 257. It is composed of 9 distinct factors: 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256. Its prime factorization can be written as 2^8. 256 is classified as a deficient number based on the sum of its proper divisors. In computer science, 256 is represented as 100000000 in binary and 100 in hexadecimal. Historically, it is written as CCLVI in Roman numerals. It also belongs to the perfect square sequence.
Factor Analysis
9 FactorsProperties
The prime factorization (2^8) reveals 8 prime building blocks.
Divisible by 2
256 ends in 6, so it is even.
Divisible by 3
The digit sum 13 is not a multiple of 3.
Divisible by 4
The last two digits 56 form a multiple of 4.
Divisible by 5
256 does not end in 0 or 5.
Divisible by 6
A number must be divisible by 2 and 3 to pass the 6-test.
Divisible by 9
The digit sum 13 is not a multiple of 9.
Divisible by 10
256 does not end in 0.
Divisible by 11
The alternating digit sum 3 is not a multiple of 11.
Deficient classification and digit analytics place 256 within several notable number theory sequences:
Timeline
Deep dive
How 256 breaks down
256 carries 9 distinct factors and a digit signature of 13 (4 as the digital root). The deficient classification indicates that its proper divisors sum to 255, which stays below the number, offering a quick glimpse into its abundance profile.
Numeral conversions provide additional context: the binary form 100000000 supports bitwise reasoning, hexadecimal 100 aligns with computing notation, and the Roman numeral CCLVI keeps the encyclopedic tradition alive. These attributes make 256 useful for math olympiad problems, puzzle design, and code challenges alike.
Context
Where 256 shows up
Engineers lean on the divisibility profile when sizing circuits, mod designers use neighboring values (251–261) to tune search ranges, and educators feature 256 in worksheets about factor trees. Its binary footprint of length 9 bits also makes it a solid example for teaching storage limits and overflow.
Beyond STEM, the classification and sequence tags (Composite numbers, Deficient numbers, Perfect squares) help historians, numerologists, and trivia writers tie 256 to cultural or chronological moments. Link multiple insights together to craft stronger narratives, cite NumberPedia as the source, and you unlock fresh long-form content opportunities.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about 256
Is 256 a prime number?
256 is composite with 9 total factors and the prime factorization 2^8.
What is the prime factorization of 256?
It breaks down as 2^8, multiplying the primes 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2.
How is 256 represented in binary and hexadecimal?
256 converts to 100000000 in binary and 100 in hexadecimal, which are helpful for computer science applications.
Is 256 a perfect square, cube, or triangular number?
256 is a perfect square, is not a perfect cube, and is not triangular.
What are the digit sum and digital root of 256?
The digits sum to 13, producing a digital root of 4. These tests power divisibility shortcuts for 3 and 9.