The number 19 is a prime number.
A prime number is defined as a natural number greater than 1 that has no positive divisors other than 1 and itself. In simpler terms, a prime number can only be divided evenly by 1 and the number itself.
Let’s examine 19. The only numbers that can divide 19 without leaving a remainder are 1 and 19. For example:
- 19 ÷ 1 = 19
- 19 ÷ 19 = 1
Since there are no other divisors, 19 fits the definition of a prime number.
In contrast, a composite number has more than two positive divisors. For instance, the number 20 is composite as it can be divided evenly by 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, and 20.
In summary, since 19 can only be divided by 1 and itself, it is classified as a prime number.