What best describes a composite number?

A composite number is defined as a whole number greater than one that has more than two positive divisors. This means that in addition to 1 and itself, a composite number can be divided evenly by at least one other number. For example, the number 6 is composite because its divisors are 1, 2, 3, and 6. In contrast, a number with only two positive divisors would be classified as a prime number, which does not fit the definition of a composite number.

The focus on having more than two positive divisors is crucial, as this characteristic separates composite numbers from both prime numbers and other classifications of numbers such as negatives and those less than or equal to 1. Thus, identifying a composite number requires recognition of its divisors beyond the basic criteria used for prime numbers.