Understanding Prime and Composite Numbers
In mathematics, numbers can be classified into two main categories: prime numbers and composite numbers. Prime numbers are numbers that are divisible only by themselves and 1, whereas composite numbers are numbers that have more than two factors. In this worksheet, we will explore the concept of prime and composite numbers, their differences, and how to identify them.
What are Prime Numbers?
Prime numbers are numbers that are divisible only by themselves and 1. For example, 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, and 13 are prime numbers. These numbers cannot be broken down into simpler factors, and their only factors are 1 and themselves.
What are Composite Numbers?
Composite numbers, on the other hand, are numbers that have more than two factors. These numbers can be broken down into simpler factors. For example, 4, 6, 8, 9, and 10 are composite numbers.
How to Identify Prime and Composite Numbers
Identifying prime and composite numbers can be done using the following steps:
- Check if the number is divisible by 2: If the number is divisible by 2, it is a composite number.
- Check if the number is divisible by 3: If the number is divisible by 3, it is a composite number.
- Check if the number is divisible by 5: If the number is divisible by 5, it is a composite number.
- Check if the number has any other factors: If the number has any other factors besides 1 and itself, it is a composite number.
If the number is not divisible by any of the above numbers and has no other factors besides 1 and itself, it is a prime number.
Examples of Prime and Composite Numbers
| Number | Prime or Composite? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Prime | Only factors are 1 and 2 |
| 3 | Prime | Only factors are 1 and 3 |
| 4 | Composite | Factors are 1, 2, and 4 |
| 5 | Prime | Only factors are 1 and 5 |
| 6 | Composite | Factors are 1, 2, 3, and 6 |
| 7 | Prime | Only factors are 1 and 7 |
| 8 | Composite | Factors are 1, 2, 4, and 8 |
| 9 | Composite | Factors are 1, 3, and 9 |
🤔 Note: The above table is just a few examples of prime and composite numbers. There are many more numbers that can be classified as prime or composite.
Conclusion
In conclusion, prime numbers are numbers that are divisible only by themselves and 1, whereas composite numbers are numbers that have more than two factors. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily identify whether a number is prime or composite.
What is the difference between prime and composite numbers?
+Prime numbers are numbers that are divisible only by themselves and 1, whereas composite numbers are numbers that have more than two factors.
How can I identify whether a number is prime or composite?
+Identifying prime and composite numbers can be done by checking if the number is divisible by 2, 3, 5, and other factors. If the number is not divisible by any of these numbers and has no other factors besides 1 and itself, it is a prime number.
What are some examples of prime numbers?
+Some examples of prime numbers are 2, 3, 5, 7, 11, and 13.
Related Terms:
- Prime number worksheet
- Factor grade 4 Worksheet
