| LCM can often be a confusing concept and is frequently confused with GCF (Greatest Common Factor), but they are entirely different. LCM is basically the smallest number that both 6 and 8 can be divided into evenly. Therefore, the LCM for 6 and 8 would be 24 since 8
can be divided into 24 evenly and 6 can be divided evenly into 24 as well. However, the name of this skill is "Least Common Multiple" so you would think it would have something to do with multiplying. Well, It actually does since division and multiplication are related. Another way of looking at this is to say - Are there any numbers that 6 and 8 can be multiplied by to give the same answer. Sure is - you can get 24 if you multiply 8x3 and you can get 24 if you multiply 6x4. Therefore, the LCM of 6 and 8 is 24. There are actually some excellent steps for getting this answer that are shown in our worksheet section. |
