What the hell is a FACTOR??!!

[Blueberrysplash]

Hey everybody,
I've often come across the word "factor" associated with the cascade process in the clotting of blood. Also, i've read that the stomach secretes a certain "intrinsic factor" which is vital in the absorption of vit B12.. All I would like to know is that what is a factor?? The bookish language does not appeal to me so it would be highly appreciated if someone explains it to me in simple terms..

Thanks..

[JackBean]

http://www.lmgtfy.com/?q=factor+definition

[MrMistery]

back in the days people named things "factors" because they had no idea what they actually were chemically. Some of the names have stuck, even though nowadays we know what they are - for example the factors in blood clotting are proteins