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Question

Find Least Common Multiple of 16, 32 and 40 using prime factorisation method.

Answer

LCM( 16, 32, 40 ) = 160

Explanation

Step 1: Write down factorisation of each number:

16 = 2 · 2 · 2 · 2

32 = 2 · 2 · 2 · 2 · 2

40 = 2 · 2 · 2 · 5

Step 2 : Match primes vertically:

16=2·2·2·2    
32=2·2·2·2·2  
40=2·2·2·    5

Step 3 : Bring down numbers in each column and multiply to get LCM:

16=2·2·2·2      
32=2·2·2·2·2    
40=2·2·2·    5  
LCM=2·2·2·2·2·5=160

This solution can be visualized using a Venn diagram.

The LCM is equal to the product of all the numbers on the diagram.

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LCM Calculator