The number 48 is a natural number that follows the number 47 and precedes the number 49. It is an even composite number composed of two prime numbers multiplied together, 2 x 24. Additionally, it can be written as 4² x 3 or 6³; both expressions describe its factors in exponential form.

In mathematics, 48 has some interesting properties: it is divisible by three distinct numbers (2, 3 and 8); all its digits are even; and when reversed (84), it becomes a multiple of 12. This makes for interesting puzzles to solve with this particular integer!

In popular culture outside of mathematics circles, 48 may have various meanings depending on context—for example “48 hours” might refer to a period of time allotted for completing something within two days’ time frame—but generally speaking it simply serves as another whole positive integer among many others in our numerical system!