What is the LCM of 15 and 4?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking to find the least common multiple (LCM) of the numbers 15 and 4. To solve this, we will identify the multiples of each number and determine the smallest multiple that they share.
Answer
$60$
Answer for screen readers
The least common multiple of 15 and 4 is 60.
Steps to Solve
- Find the multiples of 15
Start by listing some multiples of 15:
15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, etc.
- Find the multiples of 4
Next, list some multiples of 4:
4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, etc.
- Identify the common multiples
Now, compare the two lists for any common multiples:
The common multiples from the lists are:
60, 120, 180, etc.
- Select the least common multiple
The least common multiple (LCM) is the smallest number that appears in both lists. Therefore, the LCM of 15 and 4 is:
$$ \text{LCM}(15, 4) = 60 $$
The least common multiple of 15 and 4 is 60.
More Information
The least common multiple (LCM) of two numbers is useful in various applications like adding fractions with different denominators, scheduling tasks, or solving problems involving ratios. The LCM represents a shared multiple that is relevant for finding solutions that involve both numbers.
Tips
- Forgetting to list enough multiples: To ensure you find the LCM, it's important to list enough multiples of both numbers to not miss the smallest common one.
- Confusing LCM with GCF (Greatest Common Factor): Remember that LCM finds the smallest common multiple, while GCF looks for the largest factor.
