Formulas To Solve LCM Questions

August 9, 2019

Definition & Formula

LCM: Least Common Multiple is a number which is multiple of two or more than two numbers.

  • LCM of fractions = L.C.M of numerators/ H.C.F of denominators.
  • The least common multiple (LCM) of 2 numbers is the smallest number that they both divide evenly into.

Methods to calculate LCM

Prime factorization

We multiply the prime factors with the highest powers to get the LCM.
For example: Find the LCM of 12 and 30
Prime factorization of 12 = 2 * 2 * 3 = 22 * 31 * 50
Prime factorization of 30 = 2 * 3 * 5 = 21 * 31 * 51
Highest exponent value we take 22 * 31 * 51 = 60
Therefore,LCM (12, 30) = 60

  • Line division

The LCM (12, 30) = 22 * 31 * 51 = 60