What is the least common multiple of 4 and 16?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking to find the least common multiple (LCM) of the numbers 4 and 16. The LCM is the smallest number that is a multiple of both given numbers.
Answer
The least common multiple is 16.
Answer for screen readers
The least common multiple of 4 and 16 is 16.
Steps to Solve
-
Identify the multiples of each number
First, list out the multiples of both 4 and 16.
- Multiples of 4: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, ...
- Multiples of 16: 16, 32, 48, 64, ...
-
Find the least common multiple
Next, identify the smallest common multiple from the lists of multiples.
- From the multiples listed, the smallest number that appears in both lists is 16.
-
Conclusion
Therefore, the least common multiple of 4 and 16 is:
$$ \text{LCM}(4, 16) = 16 $$
The least common multiple of 4 and 16 is 16.
More Information
The least common multiple is useful in various areas of mathematics, especially in solving problems involving fractions and finding common denominators.
Tips
- Confusing LCM with greatest common divisor (GCD). Remember that LCM is about finding a common multiple, while GCD is about finding a common divisor.
- Not listing enough multiples. Always ensure to list enough numbers to find the common one.
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
