What is the least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 6?

To determine the least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 6, we start by identifying the multiples of each number.

The multiples of 4 are: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and so on.
The multiples of 6 are: 6, 12, 18, 24, and so on.

The LCM is the smallest multiple that both numbers share. In this case, if we compile the lists of multiples, we can see that the number 12 appears in both sequences. It's also important to clarify that the multiples of each number continue indefinitely, but for finding the LCM, we only need to focus on the smallest shared multiple.

In mathematical terms, the LCM can also be calculated by considering the prime factorization of each number:

• 4 = 2² (the prime factor is 2, raised to the power of 2)
• 6 = 2¹ * 3¹ (the prime factors are 2 and 3)

To find the LCM using prime factorizations, take the highest power of each prime factor present in the numbers:

• For the prime factor 2, the highest power between