What is a composite number?

A composite number is defined as an integer greater than 1 that has more than two divisors. This means that it can be divided evenly by numbers other than just 1 and itself. For example, the number 6 is a composite number because it can be divided by 1, 2, 3, and 6, totaling four divisors, which exceeds the two needed to be classified as composite.

The distinction between composite numbers and prime numbers is key here. Prime numbers, in contrast, have exactly two distinct positive divisors: 1 and the number itself. Therefore, the correct option appropriately identifies that composite numbers must have additional factors, signifying complexity in their structure compared to prime numbers.

Understanding composite numbers is fundamental in number theory, as it lays the groundwork for concepts such as divisibility, factorization, and the relationships between different types of integers. The remaining options do not accurately reflect the definition of composite numbers or mix in unrelated concepts.