Twelve (12)

Numerical Properties:

• Even number
• Composite number (not prime)
• Smallest composite number that is abundant (sum of proper divisors > number itself)

Mathematical Functions:

• Sum of the first six positive integers: 12 = 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 + 6
• Number of edges in an octahedron or a cube
• Number of hours in half a day
• Number of months in a year with 31 days
• Number of days in February on a non-leap year
• Number of signs of the zodiac
• Number of apostles in Christianity
• Number of stars on the European Union flag

Cultural Significance:

• In the Chinese zodiac, 12 represents the Animal of the Year (e.g., Rat, Ox, Tiger)
• In ancient Egyptian culture, 12 represented the number of hours in the night and the months in a year
• In Western astrology, 12 represents the number of zodiac signs
• In the Bible, 12 represents the number of apostles, the tribes of Israel, and the gates of the New Jerusalem

Other Facts:

• The prefix "dodeca-" or "duodec-" indicates "twelve."
• 12 is the atomic number of magnesium.
• The U.S. Federal Reserve maintains 12 regional banks.
• In chess, there are 12 pieces per player.