Is 83 a prime or composite number?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking whether the number 83 is a prime number, which means it can only be divided by 1 and itself, or a composite number, which means it has additional divisors. We will determine if 83 meets the criteria for being prime.

More Information

A prime number has exactly two distinct positive divisors: 1 and itself. Since 83 can only be divided by 1 and 83 without resulting in a fraction, it is prime.

Tips

A common mistake is assuming a number is composite if it can't be tested with small prime factors; always check up to the square root of the number.

Sources

• Prime Number Chart - mathsisfun.com
• Prime and Composite Numbers - mathsisfun.com