Math Problem Statement

least common multiple 14x^2v^4 and 8u^6x^8v^5

Solution

To find the least common multiple (LCM) of two algebraic expressions, we need to consider both the numerical coefficients and the variables with their exponents.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Identify the coefficients:

    • The coefficients are 14 and 8.
  2. Find the LCM of the coefficients:

    • The prime factorization of 14 is 2×72 \times 7.
    • The prime factorization of 8 is 232^3.
    • The LCM of the numerical coefficients is found by taking the highest power of each prime number present in any of the numbers: LCM(14,8)=23×7=56\text{LCM}(14, 8) = 2^3 \times 7 = 56
  3. Identify the variables and their exponents:

    • For 14x2v414x^2v^4, the variables are x2x^2 and v4v^4.
    • For 8u6x8v58u^6x^8v^5, the variables are u6u^6, x8x^8, and v5v^5.
  4. Determine the LCM for each variable:

    • For xx: The highest power of xx is x8x^8.
    • For vv: The highest power of vv is v5v^5.
    • For uu: The highest power of uu is u6u^6 (since the first expression does not contain uu, we take the power from the second expression).
  5. Combine the LCM of the coefficients and variables: LCM(14x2v4,8u6x8v5)=56u6x8v5\text{LCM}(14x^2v^4, 8u^6x^8v^5) = 56u^6x^8v^5

Final Answer:

The least common multiple (LCM) of 14x2v414x^2v^4 and 8u6x8v58u^6x^8v^5 is: 56u6x8v5\boxed{56u^6x^8v^5}

Would you like more details on how this was calculated, or do you have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions you might find helpful:

  1. How do you find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of algebraic expressions?
  2. What is the LCM of two numbers without variables?
  3. How do you handle LCM when there are more than two algebraic expressions?
  4. Can the LCM of algebraic expressions include negative coefficients?
  5. How does the LCM change if one of the terms has a fractional exponent?

Tip: When calculating LCMs for algebraic expressions, always consider both the coefficients and the variables separately to ensure accuracy.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Polynomials
Exponents
Least Common Multiple (LCM)

Formulas

LCM calculation for algebraic expressions

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12