Understanding Prime Numbers
A prime number is a natural number greater than 1 that has no positive divisors other than 1 and itself. Let's analyze the options provided to identify which one is prime.
Options Analysis
- Option A: 16
- Divisors: 1, 2, 4, 8, 16
- Since it has divisors other than 1 and itself, 16 is not a prime number.
- Option B: 23
- Divisors: 1, 23
- It has no divisors other than 1 and 23, so 23 is a prime number.
- Option C: 42
- Divisors: 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 14, 21, 42
- With multiple divisors, 42 is not a prime number.
- Option D: 51
- Divisors: 1, 3, 17, 51
- Since it has divisors other than 1 and itself, 51 is not a prime number.
Conclusion
Among the given options, the only prime number is 23. It stands out because it can only be divided evenly by 1 and itself, confirming its status as a prime number.
Thus, the correct answer is option B: 23.