Question: A network engineer needs to divide a 36-meter and 60-meter cable into equal-length segments without leftovers. What is the greatest common factor of 36 and 60?

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:46:21 +0000

**Answer: A network engineer needs to divide a 36-meter and 60-meter cable into equal-length segments without leftovers. What is the greatest common factor of 36 and 60?** **Why This Question Is Trending Among US Professionals**
As home workshops, remote projects, and connectivity setups grow in popularity, professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike often face practical challenges involving cable lengths. Whether installing smart home systems or setting up fiber-optic test lines, understanding how to efficiently cut cables into uniform segments without waste is crucial. This scenario naturally leads to the concept of the greatest common factor—key in minimizing material waste and ensuring precise material planning. The question isn’t just technical; it reflects a common real-world need across urban and suburban settings in the US. **How the Problem Actually Works**
To find equal segments without leftover material, the goal is to determine the largest possible segment length that divides both 36 meters and 60 meters evenly. Mathematically, this means calculating the greatest common factor (GCF)—the highest number that both lengths share as a divisor. Using basic arithmetic, the GCF of 36 and 60 is 12. This means pieces of 12 meters each can be cut from both cables perfectly, eliminating leftover scraps. **Common Questions About Dividing Cables**
- *Can this method apply beyond cables?* Yes. The GCF concept is widely used in planning material shares, timelines, and synchronized project components.
- *What tools are needed?* A reliable measuring tape, a calculator, and basic geometry knowledge to confirm results.
- *What happens if I use a smaller segment?* Smaller lengths increase cuts, raising cost and complexity—GCF balances efficiency and accuracy.
- *Is the GCF always the smallest divisor?* No. The GCF is the largest shared factor, not the smallest.