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What are Composite Numbers? Definition, Meaning, List, Examples

Composite numbers chart

Hey there, little explorer. Welcome to another super fun blog from Makoons Preschool. Today, we’re going on a math adventure to discover composite numbers—numbers that love making lots of friends (factors).
In this blog, we will learn what are composite numbers? Its types and examples, and also we will find out how composite numbers are different from prime numbers. Now let’s dive into the world of numbers.

What Are Composite Numbers?

Imagine numbers as LEGO blocks. Some blocks are simple (like 2 or 3), and others can be split into smaller pieces. Composite numbers are like those big LEGO towers—they can be broken down into smaller numbers.

Definition of Composite Numbers

A composite number is a number that has more than two factors.

  • Wait, what’s a factor?
    Factors are numbers that fit perfectly into another number, like puzzle pieces. Or we can say A factor is a number that divides another number exactly.
    Example: Let’s take 6.
    • 6 can be divided by 1, 2, 3, and 6.
    • So, 1, 2, 3, and 6 are its factors (or friends!).

Fun Fact: If a number has more friends than just 1 and itself, it’s a composite number!

Examples of Composite Numbers for Kids

Let’s meet some composite numbers and their friends:

  • 4: Friends = 1, 2, 4
  • 6: Friends = 1, 2, 3, 6
  • 8: Friends = 1, 2, 4, 8
  • 9: Friends = 1, 3, 9

Activity Time!
Grab crayons and draw a big number 10. Split it into groups of 2, 5, or 1. How many ways can you divide it?

You can also Read- Examples of Compound Sentences:

Here’s a list of composite numbers from 1 to 100. Can you spot numbers you see every day?

4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 38, 39, 40, 42, 44, 45, 46, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 60, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 68, 69, 70, 72, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 82, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 98, 99, 100

Cool Facts:

  • The smallest composite number is 4 (it has friends 1, 2, and 4!).
  • 1 is NOT composite—it’s too shy and only has one friend (itself).

Two Types of Composite Numbers-

1. Even Composite Numbers

Even composite numbers are those numbers that are divisible by 2 and also have more that 2 factors. 

  • Examples: 4, 6, 8, 10

2. Odd Composite Numbers

These numbers end with 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9 but still have many friends.

  • Examples: 9, 15, 21, 27

Difference Between Prime and Composite Numbers-

Let’s see how prime numbers and composite numbers are different:

Prime NumbersComposite Numbers
Only 2 friends (1 and itself)Many friends!
Examples: 2, 3, 5, 7Examples: 4, 6, 8, 9
Smallest: 2Smallest: 4
Prime and Composite Numbers Table

Think Like a Detective:

  • If a number is not prime, it’s probably composite!

How to Find Composite Numbers: In 3 Easy Steps

  1. Step 1: Check if the number is bigger than 1.
  2. Step 2: Try dividing it by 2, 3, or 5.
    • If it splits evenly (no leftovers!), it’s composite.
  3. Step 3: Count its friends (factors). If it has more than 2, you’ve found a composite number!

Example: Is 12 a composite number?

  • Divide by 2: 12 ÷ 2 = 6 
  • Divide by 3: 12 ÷ 3 = 4 
  • Friends: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12 → Yes!

Fun Math Activities for Kids

At Makoons Preschool, we learn by PLAYING! Try these games:

1. Composite Number Treasure Hunt 

  • Hide number cards (4, 6, 8, 9, etc.) around the room.
  • Kids find them and shout “Composite!” if they have more than 2 factors.

2. Factor Pizza Party 

  • Draw a pizza and split it into slices labeled with factors.
  • Example: For 8, slices = 1, 2, 4, 8. Yummy math!

3. Build a Composite Tower 

  • Use blocks to build towers with numbers like 6 (2×3 blocks) or 9 (3×3).

Why Are Composite Numbers Important?

  • They help us share things equally (like candies or toys!).
  • They make math puzzles and games exciting!
  • Knowing them helps you become a math superhero!

Conclusion: Keep Exploring, Little Mathematician

Wow! You’ve learned so much about composite numbers today! Remember, math is like a giant playground, full of surprises and adventures. At Makoons Preschool, we mix stories, games, and giggles to make learning unforgettable. Keep asking questions, keep playing, and soon you’ll see numbers everywhere—in butterflies, cookies, and even bedtime stories!
Parents & Teachers: Explore our [Short Story in English with Moral] to turn everyday moments into learning magic!

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