Conquer the College Math Placement Challenge 2025 – Step Up and Shine!

Question: 1 / 400

What is the least common multiple (LCM) of 12 and 18?

24

30

36

To find the least common multiple (LCM) of 12 and 18, we first look at the prime factorization of each number.

The prime factorization of 12 is:

- 12 = 2^2 * 3^1

The prime factorization of 18 is:

- 18 = 2^1 * 3^2

To determine the LCM, we take the highest power of each prime factor that appears in the factorizations.

- For the prime factor 2, the highest power between 12 and 18 is 2^2.

- For the prime factor 3, the highest power is 3^2.

Now, we multiply these together to find the LCM:

- LCM = 2^2 * 3^2 = 4 * 9 = 36.

Thus, the least common multiple of 12 and 18 is 36, which confirms why this answer is correct. The LCM is essentially the smallest number that both original numbers can divide into without leaving a remainder, and in this case, that number is 36.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

54

Next Question

Report this question

Download College Math Placement Practice Test PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy