Abundant Numbers

An abundant number is a positive whole number where the sum of its proper divisors (all its divisors excluding itself) exceeds the number itself. For example, 12 has divisors 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6, which sum to 16, greater than 12. This indicates the number is "abundant." Abundant numbers highlight a certain richness in their factors, distinguishing them from perfect numbers (where the sum equals the number) and deficient numbers (where the sum is less). They are part of number theory studies and help mathematicians understand the properties of integers.