Number set — pick the odd number out (all others are composite): 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 11

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This is a property-based odd-one-out question. The simplest distinguishing feature among the listed integers is “prime vs. composite.” Identify the only prime to find the outlier.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Numbers: 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
  • Exactly one should be different by a basic number-theory property.


Concept / Approach:
Check primality. A prime has exactly two positive divisors (1 and itself). Composite numbers have more than two factors. Quickly factor each number to classify it.


Step-by-Step Solution:

4 = 22 → composite6 = 23 → composite8 = 222 → composite9 = 33 → composite10 = 25 → composite11 → prime (only 1 and 11 divide 11)12 = 223 → compositeThus 11 is the only prime; all others are composite.


Verification / Alternative check:

Try any divisibility tests: 11 is not divisible by 2, 3, 5; hence prime in this range.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12 each has nontrivial factors; none is prime.


Common Pitfalls:

Mistaking 9 (a perfect square) for prime — it is composite (3*3).


Final Answer:
11

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion