Multiples of 2 Explained with Examples and Easy Tricks

The concept of multiples of 2 plays a key role in mathematics and is widely applicable to both real-life situations and exam scenarios. Understanding multiples of 2 helps students quickly identify even numbers, solve divisibility problems, and tackle arithmetic and word problems with confidence.

What Is Multiples of 2?

A multiple of 2 is any number you get by multiplying 2 by another whole number. In simple words, these are numbers like 2, 4, 6, 8, and so on. You’ll find this concept applied in areas such as even numbers, divisibility rules, and lowest common multiple (LCM) calculations.

Key Formula for Multiples of 2

Here’s the standard formula: \( \text{Multiple of 2} = 2 \times n \), where n is a whole number (like 0, 1, 2, 3, ...).

Step-by-Step Illustration

1. Choose your number: Let’s say n = 5
   Multiply 2 × 5 = 10
2. Try a bigger number: n = 25
   Multiply 2 × 25 = 50
3. Check with zero: n = 0
   2 × 0 = 0

How to Quickly Identify Multiples of 2

The easiest trick is the divisibility rule for 2: If a number ends with 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8, it is a multiple of 2. That’s why all multiples of 2 are called even numbers.

First 20 Multiples of 2 (Quick Reference Table)

n	2 × n
1	2
2	4
3	6
4	8
5	10
6	12
7	14
8	16
9	18
10	20
11	22
12	24
13	26
14	28
15	30
16	32
17	34
18	36
19	38
20	40

Properties of Multiples of 2

• Every multiple of 2 is an even number.
• The difference between any two consecutive multiples is always 2.
• There are infinite multiples of 2.
• 0 is a multiple of every number, including 2.
• If a number is a multiple of 2, it is also divisible by 2 with no remainder.

Frequent Errors and Misunderstandings

• Assuming multiples of 2 means factors of 2 (these are different concepts!).
• Missing numbers like 0 as valid multiples of 2.
• Forgetting negative multiples: -2, -4, -6 are also multiples, although basic Maths focuses on positives.

Relation to Other Concepts

The idea of multiples of 2 connects closely with topics such as Even and Odd Numbers and LCM and HCF. Mastering this helps with more advanced concepts, including divisibility checks, prime factors, and finding common multiples.

Speed Trick or Vedic Shortcut

Here’s a quick shortcut: To check if any number is a multiple of 2, simply look at its units/last digit. If it’s 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8, you have a multiple of 2. This is a powerful time-saver, especially for large numbers seen in competitive exams and school Olympiads.

Example: Is 1,234 a multiple of 2? The last digit is 4, so YES.

Vedantu’s live Math sessions often include such shortcuts to help you boost your calculation speed.

Try These Yourself

• Write the first five multiples of 2.
• Check if 120 is a multiple of 2.
• List all multiples of 2 between 50 and 70.
• Identify: Which of these are not multiples of 2 – 14, 23, 32, 35, 42?

Word Problems Using Multiples of 2

1. A box contains 16 apples. If each plate holds 2 apples, how many plates can be filled?

Solution:

1. Number of plates = Total apples ÷ apples per plate

2. Number of plates = 16 ÷ 2 = 8

Answer: 8 plates

2. Find the smallest multiple of 2 that is also a multiple of 5.

Solution:

1. List first few multiples of 2: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, ...

2. List first few of 5: 5, 10, 15, ...

3. First common is 10.

Answer: 10

Classroom Tip

A quick way to remember multiples of 2 is to skip-count by 2: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10... Vedantu’s teachers use skip-counting songs and games to make this fun in live classes!

Wrapping It All Up

We explored multiples of 2 from definition, formula, examples, errors, and connection to other subjects. Continue practicing with Vedantu for more math confidence and exam preparation. For a deeper dive, check out related topics like multiples of 3, multiples of 4, or learn about divisibility rules to connect all your number skills!