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Last updated on May 26th, 2025

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Divisibility Rule of 16

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The divisibility rule is a way to determine whether a number is divisible by another number without using the division method. In real life, we can use the divisibility rule for quick math, dividing things evenly, and sorting things. In this topic, we will learn about the divisibility rule of 16.

Divisibility Rule of 16 for UK Students
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What is the Divisibility Rule of 16?

The divisibility rule for 16 is a method by which we can find out if a number is divisible by 16 or not without using the division method. Check whether 16,384 is divisible by 16 with the divisibility rule.  

 

Step 1: Check the last four digits of the number, here in 16,384, the last four digits are 3,384. 


Step 2: If the number formed by the last four digits is divisible by 16, then the entire number is divisible by 16. 


Step 3: In this case, 3,384 divided by 16 gives 211.5, which is not an integer, hence 16,384 is not divisible by 16.

 

divisibility rule of 16

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Tips and Tricks for Divisibility Rule of 16

Learn the divisibility rule to help kids master division. Let’s learn a few tips and tricks for the divisibility rule of 16.

 

  • Know the powers of 2: Memorize the powers of 2, especially 2^4=16, to quickly check divisibility. If the last four digits form a number that is a multiple of 16, the number is divisible by 16.

 

  • Use the last digits: Focus on the last four digits of any number. If they form a number divisible by 16, the entire number is divisible by 16.

 

  • Repeat the process for complex numbers: For very large numbers, you can repeat the divisibility process for different sets of four digits until you verify divisibility.

 

  • Use the division method to verify: Students can use the division method as a way to verify and cross-check their results. This will help them verify and also learn.
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Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Divisibility Rule of 16

The divisibility rule of 16 helps us quickly check if a given number is divisible by 16, but common mistakes like calculation errors can lead to incorrect conclusions. Here, we will understand some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1

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Not focusing on the last four digits.

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Students should focus on the last four digits of the number to check for divisibility by 16.

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Divisibility Rule of 16 Examples

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Problem 1

Is 3,328 divisible by 16?

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Yes, 3,328 is divisible by 16.

Explanation

To check the divisibility of a number by 16, we look at the last four digits (if the number has less than four digits, we consider the whole number).  

 

1) The last four digits of 3,328 are 3328.  


2) Divide 3328 by 16, which results in 208.  


3) Since 3328 divided by 16 results in a whole number, 3,328 is divisible by 16.

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Problem 2

Check the divisibility rule of 16 for 48,720.

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No, 48,720 is not divisible by 16. 

Explanation

To check the divisibility of 48,720 by 16:  

 

1) Consider the last four digits, which are 8720.  


2) Divide 8720 by 16, which results in 545 with a remainder.  


3) Since there is a remainder, 48,720 is not divisible by 16.

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Problem 3

Is -4,096 divisible by 16?

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Yes, -4,096 is divisible by 16.

Explanation

For negative numbers, we apply the same divisibility rule by considering the magnitude.  

 

1) The last four digits are 4096.  


2) Divide 4096 by 16, which results in 256.  


3) Since 4096 divided by 16 results in a whole number, -4,096 is divisible by 16.

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Problem 4

Can 7,134 be divisible by 16 following the divisibility rule?

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No, 7,134 isn't divisible by 16.

Explanation

To check if 7,134 is divisible by 16:

 

 1) The last four digits are 7134.  


2) Divide 7134 by 16, which results in 445 with a remainder.  


3) Since there is a remainder, 7,134 is not divisible by 16.

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Problem 5

Check the divisibility rule of 16 for 65,536.

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Yes, 65,536 is divisible by 16. 

Explanation

To check the divisibility of 65,536 by 16:

 

 1) The last four digits are 6536.  


2) Divide 6536 by 16, which results in 408.5; however, we must have made a mistake, since 6536 directly isn't divisible, but 65536 is.  


3) Upon realizing the number error, 65,536 divided by 16 results in 409 without any remainder, confirming it is divisible by 16.

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FAQs on Divisibility Rule of 16

1.What is the divisibility rule for 16?

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2.How can I quickly check if a number is divisible by 16?

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3.Is 1,024 divisible by 16?

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4.What if the last four digits are all zeros?

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5.Does the divisibility rule of 16 apply to all integers?

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6.How can children in United Kingdom use numbers in everyday life to understand Divisibility Rule of 16?

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7.What are some fun ways kids in United Kingdom can practice Divisibility Rule of 16 with numbers?

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8.What role do numbers and Divisibility Rule of 16 play in helping children in United Kingdom develop problem-solving skills?

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9.How can families in United Kingdom create number-rich environments to improve Divisibility Rule of 16 skills?

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Important Glossaries for Divisibility Rule of 16

  • Divisibility rule: A set of guidelines used to determine if a number is divisible by another without direct division.

 

  • Powers of 2: Numbers that result from raising 2 to an integer exponent, such as 2, 4, 8, 16, etc.

 

  • Integers: Whole numbers, including negatives and zero.

 

  • Subtraction: The process of finding the difference between two numbers.

 

  • Verification: The process of confirming the accuracy of a divisibility rule by using direct division or other methods.
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About BrightChamps in United Kingdom

At BrightChamps, we know numbers are more than just figures—they open doors to a world full of opportunities! Our mission is to assist children across the United Kingdom in mastering key math concepts, including today’s Divisibility Rule of 16, with a special emphasis on the Divisibility Rule—taught in a lively, enjoyable, and simple manner. Whether your child is measuring the speed of a roller coaster at Alton Towers, tracking scores at a local football match, or managing their pocket money for the latest gadgets, a solid grasp of numbers builds confidence for daily challenges. Our interactive lessons are designed to be both fun and accessible. Because children in the UK learn differently, we tailor our methods to suit every learner. From bustling London to Cornwall’s scenic coastlines, BrightChamps brings math to life, making it relevant and exciting across the UK. Let’s turn the Divisibility Rule into a fun part of every child’s math journey!
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Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana

About the Author

Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana has almost two years of teaching experience. She is a number ninja as she loves numbers. Her interest in numbers can be seen in the way she cracks math puzzles and hidden patterns.

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Max, the Girl Character from BrightChamps

Fun Fact

: She loves to read number jokes and games.

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