235 LearnersLast updated on May 26th, 2025
LCM of 18 and 24
The Least common multiple (LCM) is the smallest number that is divisible by the numbers 18 and 24. The LCM can be found using the listing multiples method, the prime factorization and/or division methods. LCM helps to solve problems with fractions and scenarios like scheduling or aligning repeating cycle of events.
What is the LCM of 18 and 24?
The LCM of 18 and 24 is the smallest positive integer, a multiple of both numbers. By finding the LCM, we can simplify the arithmetic operations with fractions to equate the denominators.
How to find the LCM of 18 and 24?
There are various methods to find the LCM, Listing method, prime factorization method and division method are explained below;
LCM of 18 and 24 using the Listing multiples method
The LCM of 18 and 24 can be found using the following steps;
Step1: Write down the multiples of each number:
Multiples of 18 = 18,36,54,72,90…
Multiples of 24= 24,48,72…
Step 2: Ascertain the smallest multiple from the listed multiples of 18 and 24.
The LCM of 18 and 24 = 72
LCM of 18 and 24 using the Prime Factorization
The prime factors of each number are written, and then the highest power of the prime factors is multiplied to get the LCM.
Step1: Find the prime factors of the numbers:
Prime factorization of 18 = 2×3×3
Prime factorization of 24 = 2×2×2×3
Step 2: Multiply the highest power of each factor ascertained to get the LCM:
LCM (18,24) = 2×2×3×3×2= 72
LCM of 18 and 24 using the Division Method
The Division Method involves simultaneously dividing the numbers by their prime factors and multiplying the divisors to get the LCM.
Step 1:Write down the numbers in a row;
Step 2: A prime integer that is evenly divisible into at least one of the provided numbers should be used to divide the row of numbers. Continue dividing the numbers until the last row of the results is ‘1’ and bring down the numbers not divisible by the previously chosen prime number.
Step 3: The LCM of the numbers is the product of the prime numbers in the first column, i.e,
2×2×2×3×3 = 72
LCM (18,24)=72
Common Mistakes and how to avoid them while finding the LCM of 18 and 24
Listed below are a few commonly made mistakes while attempting to ascertain the LCM of 18 and 24 make a note while practicing.
Mistake 1
Incorrect multiplication of factors
Incorrect calculation of product may take place when prime factors are multiplied due to confusion in the powers of the prime factors. Be mindful while doing so and cross-check once done obtaining the product.
LCM of 18 and 24, Examples
Problem 1
Bells at a play school ring for the assembly, 18 and 24 minutes apart, respectively. If they ring together at 1:00 PM, when will they ring together again?
The LCM of 18 and 24 is 72.
Explanation
The bells will ring together at 2:12 PM next. The LCM expresses the smallest common interval between the digits.
Problem 2
A running track is 18 meters long and 24 meters wide. What is the shortest length of a fence needed to enclose the track?
The LCM of 18 and 24 is 72.
Explanation
The smallest length that can be divided by both 18 and 24 can be divided by 72. The shortest length of the fence is 72 meters. The LCM expresses the smallest common interval between the digits.
Problem 3
One cookie jar is filled every 18 hours, and the candy jar is filled every 24 hours. If the jars started filling at the same time, how long will it take for the both of them to be filled?
The LCM of 18 and 24 is 72.
Explanation
Both jars will be filled at the same time again in 72 hours. The LCM expresses the smallest common interval between the digits.
Problem 4
Two vans arrive at a store every 18 and 24 days, respectively, for a delivery. If they both arrive at the station today, when will they arrive together again?
The LCM of 18 and 24 is 72.
Explanation
The vans will arrive at the station together again in 72 days. The LCM expresses the smallest common interval between the digits.
FAQ’s on LCM of 18 and 24
1. Why is the LCM of 24 and 18 not simply their product (18 × 24 = 432) ?
2.What is the relationship between the Highest common factor (HCF) and LCM of 18 and 24?
3. How do you find the HCF of 18 and 24?
4.. How do you find the LCM with different bases in an exponential equation ?
5.How do you find the LCM of 18 and 24 using a Venn diagram?
6.How can children in Indonesia use numbers in everyday life to understand LCM of 18 and 24?
7.What are some fun ways kids in Indonesia can practice LCM of 18 and 24 with numbers?
8.What role do numbers and LCM of 18 and 24 play in helping children in Indonesia develop problem-solving skills?
9.How can families in Indonesia create number-rich environments to improve LCM of 18 and 24 skills?
Important glossaries for LCM of 18 and 24
- Multiple: A number and any integer multiplied.
- Prime Factor: A natural number (other than 1) that has factors that are one and itself.
- Prime Factorization: The process of breaking down a number into its prime factors is called Prime Factorization.
- Co-prime numbers: When the only positive integer that is a divisor of them both is 1, a number is co-prime.
- Relatively Prime Numbers: Numbers that have no common factors other than 1.
- Fraction: A representation of a part of a whole.
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Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana
About the Author
Hiralee Lalitkumar Makwana has almost two years of teaching experience. She is a number ninja as she loves numbers. Her interest in numbers can be seen in the way she cracks math puzzles and hidden patterns.
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