How do you figure out the LCM (Least Common Multiple) in algebra?

Answer by  squirrel1434 (63)

There is no formula for determining the least common multiple of two numbers. What you can do is systematically divide both numbers by the same number. Start by checking to see if each number is divisible by 2, then 3, etc. Note that you can skip prime numbers.

Answer by  esteban (1334)

You can find the LCM by first finding the prime factorization of the two numbers involved and then taking the product of the highest power of each of the prime factors. For example: LCM(36, 42). 36 = (2^2)(3^2) and 42 = (2^1)(3^1)(7^1). So lcm(36,42) = (2^2)(3^2)(7^1) or 252.

Answer by  Chrissie (266)

Take all the numbers you need to find the LCM of. Eliminate any which divides evenly into any other. Multiply the remaining numbers together.