Factoring Algorithms

Factoring algorithms are mathematical methods used to break down a composite number into its prime factors, which are the building blocks of the number. For example, the number 15 can be factored into 3 and 5, both of which are primes. These algorithms are crucial in areas like cryptography, where security relies on the difficulty of factoring large numbers. Popular methods include trial division, the Pollard rho algorithm, and the quadratic sieve. Each method has its own efficiency and applicability depending on the size and nature of the number being factored.