Lowest Common Multiple of Algebraic Expression

The L.C.M of two algebraic terms is the smallest common multiple they have. 

Example 4.4.1:

Find the LCM of 

(a) \( \scriptsize a \: and \: 6 \)
(b)  3x and 4x
(c)  2a², 8a and 12a 

Solution 

(a) \( \scriptsize a \: and \: 6 \)

LCM of a and 6

= \( \scriptsize 2 \: \times \: 3 \: \times \: a = 6a \)

(b)  3x and 4x

LCM of 3x and 4x

= \( \scriptsize 2 \: \times \: 2 \: \times \: 3 \: \times \: x = 12x \)

(c)  2a², 8a and 12a 

LCM of 2a², 8a and 12a

= \( \scriptsize 2 \: \times \: 2 \:\times \: 2 \: \times \: 3 \: \times \: a \: \times \: a = 24a^2 \)

Evaluation Questions: