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Find Least Common Multiple of 32, 16 and 12 using prime factorisation method.

Answer

LCM( 32, 16, 12 ) = 96

Explanation

Step 1: Write down factorisation of each number:

32 = 2 · 2 · 2 · 2 · 2

16 = 2 · 2 · 2 · 2

12 = 2 · 2 · 3

Step 2 : Match primes vertically:

32=2·2·2·2·2  
16=2·2·2·2    
12=2·2·      3

Step 3 : Bring down numbers in each column and multiply to get LCM:

32=2·2·2·2·2    
16=2·2·2·2      
12=2·2·      3  
LCM=2·2·2·2·2·3=96

This solution can be visualized using a Venn diagram.

The LCM is equal to the product of all the numbers on the diagram.

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