In mathematics it is used for dividing a number, whereas in science it is element which helps in proving certain effects. So they are different for different subject.
Explanation:
In mathematics factor is to break or divide in to numbers which can be further multiplied to get the actual number. Example 6 = 3 2. here 2 and 3 are factors of 6. But when it comes to science factors are the elements that contributes something to result. It may be in controlled environment or naturally occurring one. The lab experiments are basically done in the controlled environment to check the factor effect over the experiment.
