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The problem asks for the greatest common factor (GCF) of 18 and 42. Let's solve it:

### Step 1: Find the prime factorization of both numbers:
- **18** can be factored as \( 18 = 2 \times 3^2 \).
- **42** can be factored as \( 42 = 2 \times 3 \times 7 \).

### Step 2: Identify the common factors:
- Both 18 and 42 have the factors 2 and 3 in common.

### Step 3: Multiply the common factors:
- The GCF is \( 2 \times 3 = 6 \).

Thus, the greatest common factor of 18 and 42 is **6**.

Would you like more details on any specific step? Here are five related questions to explore further:

1. How do you find the greatest common factor for larger numbers?
2. What is the difference between GCF and least common multiple (LCM)?
3. How can you find the GCF using the Euclidean algorithm?
4. Can you always find the GCF by just listing factors?
5. How does prime factorization help with GCF and LCM calculations?

**Tip:** Always break down numbers into their prime factors to easily spot common factors!

What is the greatest common factor of 18 and 42?

Learn how to find the greatest common factor (GCF) of 18 and 42 through prime factorization. This step-by-step guide is suitable for students in Grades 5-7 and covers key concepts in number theory and prime factorization.

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