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The word "sieve" in this context is used figuratively with reference to the fact that a sieve does not hold all its contents. Think of sprinkling numbers at the top of the page. The composite numbers get caught, the prime numbers sift on down.

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Q: Why is sieve of eratosthenes called a sieve?
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Related questions

When did Eratosthenes discover the sieve?

The sieve of Eratosthenes was discovered in 223 BC.


What is the name of Eratosthenes method of finding prime numbers?

It is called a sieve.


What are the crossed out numbers above one called on a sieve of Eratosthenes?

composite numbers


What is the name of Eratosthenes' method of finding composite numbers?

Eratosthenes' method of finding prime and composite number is called 'The Sieve of Eratosthene'.


What are you filtering with sieve of eratosthenes?

The Sieve of Eratosthenes filters numbers, letting the composites fall through while the primes remain.


Who created the sieve of eratosthenes?

Eratosthenes, a greek philosopher, did, hence the name.


Where did sieve eratosthenes grow up?

his name isnt sieve but, i know a website all about his life. theres one on eratosthenes on wikipedia. so there, by the way, eratosthenes is the wierdest name ever!!!!!!!!!


What date was Sieve Eratosthenes born?

About 276 BC Eratosthenes was a Greek mathematician who is credited with a simple method of making a list of as many primes as you wish. His method is known as the Sieve of Eratosthenes.


Who invented the prime number sieve?

Eratosthenes


Where did Eratosthenes Sieve invent prime no?

The Sieve did not invent prime numbers. It was used to find them.


Why is the prime number grid called the sieve?

One method for finding prime numbers is called the "Sieve of Eratosthenes" because it basically "sifts" through the numbers looking for numbers that are not not prime.


How do you pronounce Sieve of Eratosthenes?

era-tos-the- knees.