LCM of 12 and 18

LCM of 12 and 18 is 36. LCM also known as Least Common multiple or Lowest common multiple is the smallest or the least positive integer that is divisible by the given set of numbers. Consider the example for finding the LCM of 12 and 18. The answer is 36. 36 is divisible by both 12 and 18. Even 72 is divisible by 12 and 18, however it is not the LCM for 12 and 18. The smaller number than 72 is 36 which is divisible by both 12 and 18. Hence 36 is the Least Common Multiple for 12 and 18. You can refer to LCM with Examples for more understanding.

What is LCM of 12 and 18

The Least Common Multiple or Lowest Common Multiple of 12 and 18 is 36.

How to Find LCM of 12 and 18?

LCM of 12 and 18 can be determined using three methods:

• Prime Factorisation
• Division method
• Listing the multiples

LCM of 12 and 18 Using Prime Factorisation Method

In the Prime Factorization method, the given numbers are expressed in terms of the product of prime numbers. For 12 and 18, it is 

12 = 2 x 2 x 3 

18 = 2 x 3 x 3

Hence, LCM (12, 18) = 2 x 2 x 3 x 3 = 36

LCM of 12 and 18 Using Division Method

In the Division Method, the given set of numbers are written in the same row separated by a comma. The given set of numbers are divided with the smallest divisible number that is common, until no further division is possible or only when prime numbers are left. 

LCM (12, 18) = 2 x 2 x 3 x 3 = 36

LCM of 12 and 18 Using Listing the Multiples

By listing all the multiples of given numbers, we can identify the first/smallest/least common multiple, which is the LCM. Below is the list of multiples for 12 and 18;

LCM (12, 18) = 36

Related Articles

• LCM
• LCM Calculator
• HCF and LCM
• LCM Formula
• Prime Factorization and Division method

Video Lesson on Applications of LCM

Solved Examples 

What is the smallest number that is divisible by both 12 and 18?

Answer: 36 is the smallest number that is divisible by both 12 and 18. 

What is the LCM for 2, 12 and 18? 

Answer: LCM for 2, 12 and 18 is 36.