Find the smallest common multiple

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 12 views

Introduction

In mathematics, the Least Common Multiple (LCM) is a fundamental concept that plays a crucial role in various mathematical operations, including fractions, decimals, and algebra. The LCM of a set of numbers is the smallest number that is a multiple of each of the numbers in the set. In this article, we will explore the concept of LCM, its importance, and how to calculate the LCM of 102, 96, and 98.

What is LCM?

The LCM of a set of numbers is the smallest number that is a multiple of each of the numbers in the set. It is also known as the smallest common multiple (SCM). The LCM is an essential concept in mathematics, as it helps us to find the smallest number that can be divided evenly by each of the numbers in the set.

Importance of LCM

The LCM has numerous applications in various fields, including:

Fractions and Decimals: The LCM is used to simplify fractions and decimals by finding the smallest number that can be divided evenly by each of the numbers in the set.
Algebra: The LCM is used to solve equations and inequalities by finding the smallest number that can be divided evenly by each of the numbers in the set.
Time and Scheduling: The LCM is used to find the smallest time interval that can be divided evenly by each of the numbers in the set.

How to Calculate LCM

To calculate the LCM of a set of numbers, we can use the following steps:

List the multiples: List the multiples of each number in the set.
Find the common multiples: Find the common multiples of each number in the set.
Find the smallest common multiple: Find the smallest common multiple of each number in the set.

Calculating LCM of 102, 96, and 98

To calculate the LCM of 102, 96, and 98, we can use the following steps:

Step 1: List the Multiples

Multiples of 102: 102, 204, 306, 408, 510, 612, 714, 816, 918, 1020, ...
Multiples of 96: 96, 192, 288, 384, 480, 576, 672, 768, 864, 960, ...
Multiples of 98: 98, 196, 294, 392, 490, 588, 686, 784, 882, 980, ...

Step 2: Find the Common Multiples

Common multiples of 102 and 96: 408, 816, 1224, 1632, 2040, 2448, 2856, 3264, 3672, 4080, ...
Common multiples of 102 and 98: 408, 816, 1224, 1632, 2040, 2448, 2856, 3264, 3672, 4080, ...
Common multiples of 96 and 98: 192, 384, 576, 768, 960, 1152, 1344, 1536, 1728, 1920, ...

Step 3: Find the Smallest Common Multiple

Smallest common multiple of 102, 96, and 98: 4080

Conclusion

In conclusion, the LCM of 102, 96, and 98 is 4080. The LCM is an essential concept in mathematics, and it has numerous applications in various fields. By following the steps outlined in this article, we can calculate the LCM of any set of numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the LCM of 102, 96, and 98?

A: The LCM of 102, 96, and 98 is 4080.

Q: How do I calculate the LCM of a set of numbers?

A: To calculate the LCM of a set of numbers, you can use the following steps:

List the multiples of each number in the set.
Find the common multiples of each number in the set.
Find the smallest common multiple of each number in the set.

Q: What is the importance of LCM?

A: The LCM has numerous applications in various fields, including fractions and decimals, algebra, and time and scheduling.

Q: How do I use LCM in real-life situations?

A: The LCM can be used in various real-life situations, such as finding the smallest time interval that can be divided evenly by each of the numbers in the set, or simplifying fractions and decimals by finding the smallest number that can be divided evenly by each of the numbers in the set.