Least Common Multiple (LCM) Calculator
Find the least common multiple of two or more numbers.
Useful for adding fractions and scheduling problems.
Least Common Multiple
Least Common Multiple (LCM) is the smallest positive number that is divisible by two or more numbers.
Formula using GCF:
LCM(a, b) = |a × b| / GCF(a, b)
Example: LCM of 12 and 8
- GCF(12, 8) = 4
- LCM = (12 × 8) / 4 = 96 / 4 = 24
Verification: 24 ÷ 12 = 2 and 24 ÷ 8 = 3 (both divide evenly)
Common uses:
- Adding fractions with different denominators
- Finding when events will coincide (scheduling)
- Calculating gear ratios and cycles