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Last updated on May 26th, 2025

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LCM of 4,8 and 12

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The smallest positive integer that divides the numbers with no numbers left behind is the LCM of 4,8 and 12. Did you know? We apply LCM unknowingly in everyday situations like setting alarms and to synchronize traffic lights and when making music. In this article, let’s now learn to find LCMs of 4,8 and 12.

LCM of 4,8 and 12 for US Students
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What is LCM of 4,8 and 12

We can find the LCM using listing multiples method, prime factorization method and the long division method. These methods are explained here, apply a method that fits your understanding well. 
 

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LCM of 4,8 and 12 using listing multiples method

Step 1: List the multiples of each of the numbers; 


4 = 4,8,12,16,20,24,…


8= 8,16,24,…


12= 12,24,…


Step 2: Find the smallest number in both the lists 


LCM (4,8,12) = 24 
 

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LCM of 4,8 and 12 using prime factorization method

Step 1:Prime factorize the numbers.


4 =  2×2


8 = 2×2×2


12 = 2×2×3


Step 2: find highest powers


Step 3: Multiply the highest powers of the numbers


LCM(4,8,12) = 24

Professor Greenline from BrightChamps

LCM of 4,8 and 12 using division method

  • Write the numbers in a row 

 

  • Divide them with a common prime factor

 

  • Carry forward numbers that are left undivided 

 

  • Multiply the divisors to find the LCM

 

  • LCM (4,8,12) = 24
     
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Common mistakes and how to avoid them in LCM of 4,8 and 12

Listed here are a few mistakes children may make when trying to find the LCM due to confusion or due to unclear understanding. Be mindful, understand, learn and avoid!
 

Mistake 1

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Duplicating or skipping a factor 
 

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A factor may be missed when we prime factorize a number. Writing the prime factorization of 4 may be written as 3×2 instead of 2×2 accidentally. 

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LCM of 4,8 and 12 Examples

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Problem 1

If the LCM of 4, 8, and another number is 24, what is the missing number?

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We know the LCM of 4 and 8 is 8, and the LCM of 4, 8, and the missing number is 24. To find the missing number, divide the total LCM by the LCM of 4 and 8:


24/8=3
 

Explanation

The missing number is 3.
 

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Problem 2

Three bells ring at intervals of 4 minutes, 8 minutes, and 12 minutes. If they all ring together at 12:00 PM, when will they ring together again?

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We need to find the LCM of the intervals (4, 8, 12 minutes). The LCM of 4, 8, and 12 is 24 minutes.
 

Explanation

The bells will ring together again in 24 minutes, i.e., at 12:24 PM.
 

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Problem 3

Find the smallest number that leaves a remainder of 1 when divided by 4, 8, and 12.

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The smallest number divisible by 4, 8, and 12 is their LCM, which is 24. To leave a remainder of 1, the number must be of the form:


n=24k+1


The smallest such number is 24×1+1=25
 

Explanation

The smallest number is 25.
 

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FAQs on the LCM of 4,8 and 12

1.Is the LCM of 4 and 8, 12?

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2.What is the LCM of 4,6,8 and 12?

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3.Is the LCM of 4 and 9, 12?

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4.What is the LCM of 7 and 8?

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5.Find the LCM of 7 and 9.

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6.How can children in United States use numbers in everyday life to understand LCM of 4,8 and 12 ?

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7.What are some fun ways kids in United States can practice LCM of 4,8 and 12 with numbers?

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8.What role do numbers and LCM of 4,8 and 12 play in helping children in United States develop problem-solving skills?

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9.How can families in United States create number-rich environments to improve LCM of 4,8 and 12 skills?

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Important glossaries for LCM of 4,8 and 12

  • Multiple: the result after multiplication of a number and an integer. To explain, 5×5 =25; 25 is a multiple of 5. 

 

  • Prime Factor: A number with only two factors, 1 and the number. For example,7, its factors are only 1 and 7 and the number when divided by any other integer will leave a remainder behind. 

 

  • Prime Factorization: breaking a number down into its prime factors. For example, 60 is written as the product of 2×2×3×5. 
     
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About BrightChamps in United States

At BrightChamps, we believe numbers are more than just figures—they unlock a world full of possibilities! Our goal is to help children throughout the United States master key math skills, focusing today on the LCM of 4,8 and 12 with special attention to understanding the LCM—in a way that’s engaging, fun, and easy to grasp. Whether your child is calculating the speed of a roller coaster at Disney World, keeping score during a Little League baseball game, or managing their allowance to save for cool gadgets, knowing numbers builds confidence for everyday life. Our hands-on lessons make learning enjoyable and straightforward. Since kids in the USA have unique learning styles, we customize our methods to match each child’s needs. From the lively streets of New York City to the sunny beaches of California, BrightChamps brings math alive, making it meaningful and exciting all across America. Let’s make the LCM an exciting part of every child’s math adventure!
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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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Fun Fact

: She loves to read number jokes and games.

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