Prime Number Checker

Check whether a number is prime or composite with factors, smallest divisor, and clear step-by-step explanation using the square-root test.

Check whether a whole number is prime or composite. See its factors, smallest divisor, and a step-by-step explanation.

Enter any integer. Decimals and empty values return a validation message.

Examples

Example/result panel

Example: 97 is prime because no integers from 2 to 9 divide 97 exactly.

How Prime Numbers Work

Prime numbers and composite numbers

A prime number has exactly two positive divisors: 1 and itself. A composite number has more than two positive divisors. This checker reports prime/composite status, the smallest divisor, and all factors.

Square-root divisibility test

To test whether n is prime, it is enough to check divisors up to floor(sqrt(n)). If no divisor is found in that range, n is prime.

Why 0 and 1 are not prime

0 and 1 do not have exactly two positive divisors, so they are neither prime nor composite.

Primes from 1 to 100

2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23, 29, 31, 37, 41, 43, 47, 53, 59, 61, 67, 71, 73, 79, 83, 89, 97

Worked examples

  • 2 is prime (only divisors: 1 and 2).
  • 17 is prime (not divisible by 2, 3, or 4).
  • 51 is composite (smallest divisor 3, since 51 = 3 x 17).
  • 91 is composite (smallest divisor 7, since 91 = 7 x 13).
  • 97 is prime (no divisors up to 9).
  • 101 is prime (no divisors up to 10).

FAQ

Want to explore number classes first? Read the guide on types of numbers.

Related tools: GCF and LCM calculator and factorial calculator.

Learn The Concept

Go beyond the answer

Use the calculator for the result, then read the guide if you want the underlying rule, worked examples, and common mistakes.

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