Which of the following accurately defines a prime number?

Which of the following accurately defines a prime number?

• A. A number divisible by multiple factors
• B. A natural number greater than 1 with exactly two divisors
• C. A whole number that is less than 1
• D. A non-integer number

Answer: (B)

A prime number is accurately defined as a natural number greater than 1 that has exactly two distinct positive divisors: 1 and itself. This definition is foundational in number theory and is crucial for various areas of mathematics, including cryptography and algorithm design in computer science. For instance, the number 5 is prime because its only divisors are 1 and 5. Conversely, the number 6 is not prime as it can be divided by 1, 2, 3, and 6, demonstrating that it has more than two divisors. The other definitions provided don't align with the established concept of a prime number. For example, a number divisible by multiple factors relates more to composite numbers or non-prime numbers. A whole number less than 1 or a non-integer number also does not pertain to the definition of prime numbers, as prime numbers must be natural numbers greater than 1. Thus, referring to the correct definition helps clarify the essential characteristics of prime numbers in mathematics.

A prime number is accurately defined as a natural number greater than 1 that has exactly two distinct positive divisors: 1 and itself. This definition is foundational in number theory and is crucial for various areas of mathematics, including cryptography and algorithm design in computer science.

For instance, the number 5 is prime because its only divisors are 1 and 5. Conversely, the number 6 is not prime as it can be divided by 1, 2, 3, and 6, demonstrating that it has more than two divisors.

The other definitions provided don't align with the established concept of a prime number. For example, a number divisible by multiple factors relates more to composite numbers or non-prime numbers. A whole number less than 1 or a non-integer number also does not pertain to the definition of prime numbers, as prime numbers must be natural numbers greater than 1. Thus, referring to the correct definition helps clarify the essential characteristics of prime numbers in mathematics.