Answer:8 Step-by-step explanation:Step 1: Find the prime factorization of each number8:Prime factorization: (23)(2 3 )24:Prime factorization: (23×31)(2 3 ×3 1 )40:Prime factorization: (23×51)(2 3 ×5 1 )Step 2: Identify the common factorsThe common prime factor among all three numbers is 2.Step 3: Determine the smallest exponent of the common factorsThe smallest exponent of 2 present in all factorizations is 3.Step 4: Calculate the GCFTherefore, the GCF is: GCF = 2^3 = 8 ]$$ConclusionThe **greatest common factor of 8, 24, and 40 is 8.