If you want to build up your confidence in the field of Mathematics, you should start working from the basics. Just like a tall building has a very strong base, in order to master Mathematics, it is very critical to master the basic fundamentals. Multiplication is one such operation that has many implications. It has many applications and is of many different types. As we move to higher classes, the level of multiplication keeps on increasing. In the beginning, we are endowed with the basics of multiplication between two simple numbers. We are informed that the product obtained can be completely divided by the two numbers from which the product is obtained. In higher classes, we are made familiar with the multiplication between algebraic equations. As we move on to higher degree Mathematics, we become acquainted with the product of two functions. This variation clearly explains the beauty of Mathematics. One of the most essential applications of multiplication is LCM. Lcm stands for lowest common multiple and it denotes the smallest multiple of the given numbers. This has many applications. It plays an instrumental role in the addition and subtraction of fractions. It also has many other important applications. For example, only by knowing the dimensions of a box, we can determine how much paper will be required to cover it.
This is a classic example that explains the significance of lcm. The numbers whose lowest common multiple is deduced act as factors to it. Here, we will be discussing in detail the concept and properties of the lowest common multiple.
Major Basics of LCM:
- Applications: It plays a significant role in the chapter fractions. It is useful in calculating the sum and difference between two simple fractions. It also plays an instrumental role in comparing many fractions. These factors explain the necessity of lcm. It is also very useful in solving all problems related to the meshing gears of machines. It is used to determine the number of respective rotations required for realignment. This can be done by deducting the lcm of the teeth of the respective gears. All problems related to the mesh gears are solved by the application of lcm. Similarly, the concept of it can also come into play while solving problems linked with the alignment of planets. These factors represent the significance of lcm
- Calculation: The lengthy process to calculate the lcm is to write the table of the given numbers and check for the first product which is common to all the numbers. When any common product is found, that respective product becomes the lcm. However, this method is very lengthy and can be used only for smaller numbers. We can imply the concept of factorization using prime numbers. The given numbers whose lcm is to be deduced can be represented in powers of prime numbers. The lcm is the product of the different prime numbers raised to the highest powers. This method is very effective in order to determine the lcm. The most effective method to get the lcm is the table method. The numbers whose lcm is to be calculated are placed in tables. Then division by suitable prime numbers is started. When prime numbers are the only constituent left in the table, then the product gives the lcm. This is undoubtedly the most effective method to calculate the lcm. It is very easy to determine the lcm of multiple numbers using this method.
Here, we have discussed in detail all the major concepts and calculations linked with it. This is a very important application of multiplication and is asked in both smaller and higher classes. This topic is also being asked in many competitive exams. This implies that students must pay attention to this important topic. They may seek assistance from Cuemath, an online platform for all maths and coding related queries. This platform is also utilised by teachers to improvise their ways of teaching. We hope that this article plays an instrumental role in expanding your knowledge regarding lcm.
Review LCM- An overview to Basic Mathematics.