Prime numbers are whole numbers that can only be divided evenly by 1 and itself. Composite numbers are whole numbers that can be divided evenly by more than 1 and itself. Examples of prime numbers are 2,3,5,7,11 and examples of composite numbers are 4,6,8,9,10.
Prime and Composite Numbers
The first known proof of the fundamental theorem of arithmetic was given by Euclid in his book Elements. The Prime Number Theorem was first proposed by Bernhard Riemann in 1859. There are an infinite number of prime numbers, but only a finite number of composite numbers.
Did you know?
What is the difference between a prime number and a composite number?
What are some real-life examples of prime and composite numbers?
How might understanding prime and composite numbers help you in the future?
What patterns can you find when looking at prime and composite numbers?
Brain break: Draw three talking triangles having a conversation with hats and a bow tie.
What is a prime number?
- A number that ends with the digit 0
- A number that ends with the digit 5
- A number that can be divided by any other number
- A number that can only be divided by 1 and itself
Which of these numbers is a prime: 11, 12, or 13?
What is a composite number?
- A number that has more than two factors
- A number that has exactly two factors
Which of these numbers is composite: 7, 9, or 11?
Is '1' a prime or composite?
Work together in pairs: Q: What is the difference between a prime number and a composite number?