Why do I have to find the Lowest Common Multiple (LCM)?

Question

Comparing Fractions and Ratios

Answer 1

🔢 How to Find the Least Common Multiple (LCM)

The LCM is the smallest number that two or more numbers can both divide into evenly.

Think of it as the first number they "meet" when skip-counting!

🧠 Step-by-Step:

🟡 Step 1: List the multiples of each number

1. Example: Find the LCM of 4 and 6
2. Multiples of 4: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24...
3. Multiples of 6: 6, 12, 18, 24, 30...

🟢 Step 2: Look for the first number they both have

1. That’s the Least Common Multiple!
2. In this case, both lists have 12 → LCM = 12

🔍 Tip: If the numbers are big, you can use prime factorization, multiply all the prime factors, and make sure to include each one the greatest number of times it appears in any of the numbers.

✨ Why is LCM useful?

1. Helps with adding and subtracting fractions
2. Solving word problems that involve repeating events or patterns
3. Understanding real-life schedules and timing

📘 Still stuck on LCM or GCF?

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