- Definition
The lowest common multiple (LCM) is the smallest number that two or more numbers can all divide into without any remainder. For example, the LCM of 4 and 6 is 12, because both 4 and 6 fit perfectly into 12.
For the numbers 4 and 6, the lowest common multiple is 12 because it's the first number that appears in both their multiplication tables.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: The lowest common multiple is like buying hot dogs in packs of 10 and buns in packs of 8, and finding the smallest total number you can buy to have exactly enough of each.
Ask your child: One bus comes every 5 minutes, another every 7. When will they next arrive together?
Common mix-up: Kids often confuse this with the greatest common factor, which is always smaller than the numbers. The lowest common multiple is the first number they both 'meet' at when you count by each.
Examples
- The lowest common multiple of 3 and 5 is 15.
- The lowest common multiple of 8 and 12 is 24.
lowest common multiple is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
