Which mathematical theory explores properties and behaviors of numbers?

Number Theory is the branch of mathematics that focuses specifically on the properties, relationships, and behaviors of numbers, particularly integers. This field examines various aspects of numbers, such as divisibility, prime numbers, and modular arithmetic. It seeks to understand how integers can behave in different contexts and explore the relationships between them.

In contrast, Combinatorics deals with counting, arrangement, and combination of groups of objects, often without focusing specifically on the properties of numbers themselves. Geometry concerns the study of shapes, sizes, and the properties of space, while Statistics involves the collection, analysis, interpretation, presentation, and organization of data. Each of these areas serves a distinct purpose in mathematics, but only Number Theory is dedicated to the exploration of the intrinsic properties of numbers themselves.