Math Problem Statement

Find the LCM of each set of numbers.

  1. 7 and 21
  2. 4, 8, and 12
  3. 10, 15, and 45
  4. 12, 18, and 36
  5. 9, 12, and 18

Solution

Let's find the Least Common Multiple (LCM) for each set of numbers:

  1. LCM of 7 and 21:

    • The prime factorization of 7 is 77.
    • The prime factorization of 21 is 3×73 \times 7.
    • The LCM is the highest power of each prime factor: 3×7=213 \times 7 = 21.

    LCM(7, 21) = 21

  2. LCM of 4, 8, and 12:

    • The prime factorization of 4 is 222^2.
    • The prime factorization of 8 is 232^3.
    • The prime factorization of 12 is 22×32^2 \times 3.
    • The LCM is 23×3=242^3 \times 3 = 24.

    LCM(4, 8, 12) = 24

  3. LCM of 10, 15, and 45:

    • The prime factorization of 10 is 2×52 \times 5.
    • The prime factorization of 15 is 3×53 \times 5.
    • The prime factorization of 45 is 32×53^2 \times 5.
    • The LCM is 2×32×5=902 \times 3^2 \times 5 = 90.

    LCM(10, 15, 45) = 90

  4. LCM of 12, 18, and 36:

    • The prime factorization of 12 is 22×32^2 \times 3.
    • The prime factorization of 18 is 2×322 \times 3^2.
    • The prime factorization of 36 is 22×322^2 \times 3^2.
    • The LCM is 22×32=362^2 \times 3^2 = 36.

    LCM(12, 18, 36) = 36

  5. LCM of 9, 12, and 18:

    • The prime factorization of 9 is 323^2.
    • The prime factorization of 12 is 22×32^2 \times 3.
    • The prime factorization of 18 is 2×322 \times 3^2.
    • The LCM is 22×32=362^2 \times 3^2 = 36.

    LCM(9, 12, 18) = 36

Would you like further details on how these were calculated or do you have any questions?

Here are some related questions to expand on the topic:

  1. How do you find the GCD (Greatest Common Divisor) of a set of numbers?
  2. What is the relationship between the LCM and GCD of two numbers?
  3. How can the LCM be used in solving fraction addition problems?
  4. What is the significance of prime factorization in finding the LCM?
  5. Can you find the LCM of algebraic expressions?

Tip: When finding the LCM, always remember to use the highest power of each prime factor present in the numbers.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Number Theory
Prime Factorization
Least Common Multiple (LCM)

Formulas

-

Theorems

-

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8