Find the LCM of 5 and 9.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to calculate the least common multiple (LCM) of the numbers 5 and 9. This involves finding the smallest multiple that is common to both numbers.
Answer
45
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is 45
Steps to Solve
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Find the Prime Factorizations of the Numbers
Prime factorization of 5 is: $$5 = 5^1$$ Prime factorization of 9 is: $$9 = 3^2$$
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Identify the Highest Powers of Each Prime
The highest power of 5 is $5^1$, and the highest power of 3 is $3^2$.
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Calculate the LCM by Multiplying the Highest Powers
To get the LCM, multiply the highest powers of all primes from the factorizations: $$LCM = 5^1 imes 3^2 = 5 imes 9 = 45$$
The final answer is 45
More Information
The least common multiple is used to find the smallest multiple that two or more numbers share. It is useful in various areas, such as adding fractions with different denominators.
Tips
A common mistake is not using the highest power of each prime number during the final multiplication step. Always check both factorizations thoroughly.
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