Math Problem Statement

find the least common multiple of 10a^2 and 4a^3

Solution

To find the least common multiple (LCM) of two expressions, we follow these steps:

  1. Factor the constants (numerical part):

    • 10=2×510 = 2 \times 5
    • 4=224 = 2^2
  2. Find the highest powers of each prime factor in the constants:

    • The highest power of 2 is 222^2 (from 4).
    • The highest power of 5 is 55 (from 10).
  3. Compare the variable part:

    • a2a^2 and a3a^3, the highest power of aa is a3a^3.
  4. Multiply the highest powers together: LCM(10a2,4a3)=22×5×a3=4×5×a3=20a3\text{LCM}(10a^2, 4a^3) = 2^2 \times 5 \times a^3 = 4 \times 5 \times a^3 = 20a^3

So, the least common multiple (LCM) of 10a210a^2 and 4a34a^3 is 20a3\mathbf{20a^3}.

Would you like any more details on this? Here are some related questions:

  1. How do you find the greatest common divisor (GCD) of two algebraic expressions?
  2. What is the process of factoring algebraic expressions?
  3. How does the LCM of polynomials differ from that of numbers?
  4. What is the connection between LCM and GCD in algebra?
  5. How does exponent comparison help in finding LCM in algebraic expressions?

Tip: Always factor both the constants and variables separately when finding the LCM of algebraic expressions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Least Common Multiple (LCM)
Exponents
Prime Factorization

Formulas

LCM of two algebraic expressions is found by multiplying the highest powers of each prime factor and variable.

Theorems

LCM Theorem: The LCM of two numbers or expressions is the smallest multiple that is exactly divisible by both.

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10