Is 187 a Prime Number? The Answer, Factorization, and Explanation
187 is not a prime number. It is a composite number because it can be factored as 11 × 17.

Is 187 Prime? The Direct Answer
No, 187 is not a prime number. A prime number has exactly two divisors: 1 and itself. 187 has more than two divisors, so it is composite.
Factorization of 187
The number 187 can be written as the product of two smaller positive integers: 11 × 17 = 187. Both 11 and 17 are prime numbers, so this is the prime factorization of 187.
Why Isn't 187 Prime?
- A prime number can only be divided evenly by 1 and itself.
- 187 looks like it could be prime since it's odd and not divisible by 2, 3, or 5.
- However, 11 × 17 equals 187, showing it has divisors other than 1 and 187.
How to Spot Composite Numbers Like 187 Faster
Quickly recognizing whether a number is prime or composite is a valuable skill in mental math. Practicing with games like Prime 59 helps you spot prime numbers under time pressure, letting you sharpen your ability to factor numbers like 187 on sight.
Train your eye for primes the fun way - Prime 59 is a free, race-the-clock prime-spotting game.
Try Prime 59FAQ
Is 187 a prime number?
No, 187 is not a prime number. It is composite because it equals 11 × 17.
What are the factors of 187?
The factors of 187 are 1, 11, 17, and 187.
How do you know 187 is not prime?
Since 187 can be divided evenly by 11 and 17, it has more than two divisors and is not prime.
What is the prime factorization of 187?
The prime factorization of 187 is 11 × 17.
How can I get better at spotting primes like 187?
Playing mental math games such as Prime 59 can help you practice and improve your speed in identifying prime and composite numbers.