The first step in finding the Least Common Multiple (LCM) of two numbers is to list the first several multiples of each number.
To elaborate:
When finding the LCM, you are looking for the smallest number that both original numbers divide into evenly. The process involves:
- Listing Multiples: For each number, create a list of its multiples. A multiple is the result of multiplying the number by an integer (1, 2, 3, etc.). For example, the multiples of 4 are 4, 8, 12, 16, 20... and the multiples of 6 are 6, 12, 18, 24, 30...
- Identifying Common Multiples: Look for numbers that appear in both lists. In the example above, 12 is a common multiple of 4 and 6.
- Finding the Least Common Multiple: From the common multiples, identify the smallest one. In this case, 12 is the LCM of 4 and 6.
Therefore, generating those initial lists of multiples is crucial. Without those lists, you cannot identify the common multiples or, ultimately, the LCM.
