A composite number is a whole number that can be divided by itself, 1, and one or more other whole numbers. 6 is a composite number because it can be divided by 1, 2, 3, and 6; 9 is a composite number because it can be divided by 1, 3, and 9; and 12 is a composite number because it can be divided by 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.
A prime number is a whole number that can only be divided by itself and 1. 2 is a prime number because its factors are only 1 and 2. A prime number is a whole number that can only be divided by itself and 1. 2 is a prime number because its factors are only 1 and 2.