If P is a prime number greater than 3, what is the remainder when P^2 is divided by 12?

A 0

B 1

C 3

D 5

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

Any prime P > 3 can be written as 6k±1. P² = (6k±1)² = 36k² ± 12k + 1 = 12(3k² ± k) + 1. This expression clearly shows that P² leaves a remainder of 1 when divided by 12.

💡 Why is B) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "If P is a prime number greater than 3, what is the remainder when P^2 is divided by 12?" is Option B: 1.

The other options — A) 0, C) 3, D) 5 — are incorrect for this GMAT Exam Prep question. As explained above: Any prime P > 3 can be written as 6k±1. P² = (6k±1)² = 36k² ± 12k + 1 = 12(3k² ± k) + 1. This expression clearly shows that P² leaves a remainder of 1 when divided by 12.

📚 About This GMAT Exam Prep Practice Question

This 4-level GMAT Exam Prep question from the Quantitative Reasoning topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free GMAT Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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If P is a prime number greater than 3, what is the remainder when P^2 is divided by 12?

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

📚 About This GMAT Exam Prep Practice Question

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