How are prime numbers different from composite numbers?

In number theory, the distinction between prime and composite numbers is based on the number of factors they possess.2

• Prime Numbers: A prime number is a positive integer greater than 1 that has exactly two distinct factors: 1 and itself. Examples include 2, 3, 5, 7, and 11.12
• Composite Numbers: A composite number is a positive integer greater than 1 that has more than two factors. In other words, it can be divided evenly by numbers other than 1 and itself.2

The fundamental theorem of arithmetic highlights the relationship between these two types of numbers, stating that every positive integer greater than 1 is either a prime number itself or can be expressed as a unique product of prime numbers. Because of this, prime numbers are considered the multiplicative "building blocks" of all natural numbers.12