Level 5-6 Algebra - Prime Numbers

You'll come across many types of numbers in KS3 Maths - integers, natural numbers, fractions, even letters which are used in place of numbers in algebra. One set of numbers you are sure to encounter is the prime numbers.

So, what exactly is a prime number? Well a prime number is an integer (whole number) with exactly two factors - no more, no less. The factors are always the number itself and the number 1. That means that 2, 3, 5, 7 and 11 are the first five prime numbers. They don't appear on any of the times tables except their own. 1 is NOT a prime number. The reason is that primes MUST have TWO factors. The number 1 has only one factor - itself.

Try this quiz all about prime numbers to see if you understand what the term really means. Read each question well and be sure to understand it before you choose your answer. And don't forget the helpful comments which come after each question. They might help to explain anything you are unsure of. Good luck!