Is 1 a Prime Number?

No, 1 is not considered a prime number because it has only one positive divisor (itself) while prime numbers must have exactly two distinct positive divisors.

In mathematics, a prime number is defined as a natural number greater than 1 that has exactly two distinct positive divisors: 1 and the number itself. The number 1 does not meet this criterion as it only has one positive divisor (1 itself). Prime numbers play a fundamental role in number theory and are essential in various mathematical applications.

Since 1 lacks the required two distinct divisors, it is not considered a prime number. This distinction helps maintain the uniqueness of prime numbers, which are crucial in factorization and understanding the fundamental properties of integers. In essence, prime numbers are divisible only by 1 and themselves, making 1 an exception due to its sole divisor.