composite numbers

A composite number is a positive integer greater than 1 that has more than two distinct positive divisors. In other words, it can be divided evenly by at least one positive integer other than 1 and itself. Unlike prime numbers, which have exactly two distinct divisors (1 and the number itself), composite numbers have additional factors, making them an important concept in number theory and mathematics. Examples of composite numbers include 4, 6, 8, 9, and 12. Understanding composite numbers is essential for topics like factorization, divisibility rules, and simplifying fractions.