Find the least common multiple of 12,4 , and 9.

To find the least common multiple (LCM) of 12, 4, and 9, we first break each number down into its prime factors: - 12 = 2² × 3¹ - 4 = 2² - 9 = 3² Now, for the LCM, we take the highest powers of each prime that appears across the factorizations: - The highest power of 2 is 2² (from 12 and 4) - The highest power of 3 is 3² (from 9) Now we multiply these together: LCM = 2² × 3² = 4 × 9 = 36. So, the least common multiple of 12, 4, and 9 is 36. Sometimes, finding the LCM can feel like navigating a maze of numbers! But a neat trick is using the greatest common divisor (GCD). Calculate the GCD first and then use the formula: LCM(a, b) = (a * b) / GCD(a, b). It’s a total game-changer when working with larger numbers or more than two values! Moreover, to strengthen your understanding, try finding the LCM of other sets of numbers. Start simple (like 6, 8) and then increase the complexity. It’s like leveling up in a game—each calculation unlocks new insights into how these number relationships work!