Which statement best defines a factor?

A factor of a number is defined as any number that can be multiplied by another integer to produce that number. In this sense, it encompasses all the whole numbers that can divide evenly into the given number, meaning that there is no remainder when performing the division. For instance, if we consider the number 12, the numbers that divide into it without leaving a remainder (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12) are all factors of 12.

This understanding aligns perfectly with the correct definition provided in the answer. It acknowledges that factors include any whole numbers that can be multiplied together to arrive at the original number. Hence, the consideration of both prime and non-prime numbers plays a significant role in identifying all factors of a number. The other options do not accurately convey this essential definition of factors.