Example

Example: Finding the Least Common Multiple of 12 and 18 Using the Prime Factors Method

To find the least common multiple (LCM) of 12 and 18 using the prime factors method:

  1. Write each as a product of primes: 12=22312 = 2 \cdot 2 \cdot 3 and 18=23318 = 2 \cdot 3 \cdot 3.
  2. List the primes and match them vertically: the first 2 and the first 3 are common to both.
  3. Bring down the numbers from each column: 2, 2, 3, and 3.
  4. Multiply the factors: 2233=362 \cdot 2 \cdot 3 \cdot 3 = 36.

Therefore, the least common multiple of 12 and 18 is 36.

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Updated 2026-06-24

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