lcm 4 9
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the least common multiple (LCM) of the numbers 4 and 9. To find the LCM, we need to determine the smallest number that is a multiple of both 4 and 9.
Answer
The LCM of 4 and 9 is $36$.
Answer for screen readers
The least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 9 is $36$.
Steps to Solve
- List the multiples of each number First, find the multiples of 4 and 9.
- The first few multiples of 4 are: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, ...
- The first few multiples of 9 are: 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, ...
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Identify the common multiples Next, look for the common multiples from both lists. The common multiples of 4 and 9 from the lists above are: 36, ...
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Find the least common multiple (LCM) Now, identify the smallest number that is common in both lists. The smallest common multiple is 36.
The least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 9 is $36$.
More Information
The least common multiple is important in various mathematical operations, especially when adding or subtracting fractions with different denominators. The LCM provides a common denominator to facilitate these calculations.
Tips
- Not listing enough multiples: Sometimes, students might stop too early in listing multiples and miss the smallest one. Always ensure you have enough multiples listed.
- Confusing LCM with GCD: Students might confuse least common multiple (LCM) with greatest common divisor (GCD). Remember that LCM is about finding the smallest common multiple, while GCD is the largest common divisor.
