Is 137 a Prime Number? Yes, Here’s Why
Yes, 137 is a prime number. Its only divisors are 1 and 137, so it cannot be broken down into other integer factors.
137’s Factorization: Only 1 and 137
Prime numbers have exactly two divisors: 1 and themselves. The only numbers that divide 137 evenly are 1 and 137. That means there are no other whole numbers you can multiply together to get 137, confirming it's prime.
Why 137 Is Considered Prime
A prime number is defined by having exactly two distinct positive divisors. If a number can be divided evenly by any number other than 1 and itself, it is composite, not prime. Since 137 cannot be divided by any number other than 1 or 137 without a remainder, it meets the definition of a prime number.
What About Twin Primes?
137 and 139 are called twin primes because they are both prime and differ by only 2. This is a special relationship in prime number theory, and 137 is part of one such pair.
Sharpening Your Prime-Spotting Skills
Quickly recognizing whether a number like 137 is prime is a valuable mental math skill. You can practice and improve at spotting primes fast by playing Prime 59, a game where you race the clock to identify prime numbers in real time.
Train your eye for primes the fun way - Prime 59 is a free, race-the-clock prime-spotting game.
Try Prime 59FAQ
Is 137 a composite number?
No, 137 is not composite. It is a prime number because its only divisors are 1 and 137.
What are the factors of 137?
The only factors of 137 are 1 and 137.
Why is 137 considered a prime number?
Because it can only be divided evenly by 1 and itself, which is the definition of a prime number.
What is a twin-prime pair involving 137?
137 and 139 form a twin-prime pair, meaning both are prime and differ by 2.
How can I get better at recognizing prime numbers like 137?
You can improve your prime-spotting skills by playing Prime 59, a fast-paced game focused on identifying prime numbers.