LCM of 36 and 42

LCM of 36 and 42 is 252. The Least Common multiple or Lowest common multiple simply known as LCM is the smallest or the least positive integer that is divisible by the given set of numbers. In the given set of numbers 36 and 42, 252 is the first(least or smallest) number that is common in the set of multiples of 36 and 42. There are other common multiples out of which 252 is the smallest. The LCM is also known as LCD, Least Common Divisor for 36 and 42 is 252. You can read more on LCM for further details.

What is LCM of 36 and 42

The Least Common Multiple or Lowest Common Multiple of 36 and 42 is 252.

How to Find LCM of 36 and 42?

LCM of 36 and 42 can be determined using three methods:

• Prime Factorisation
• Division method
• Listing the multiples

LCM of 36 and 42 Using Prime Factorisation Method

In the Prime Factorisation method, the numbers can be expressed as the product of prime numbers. Here, 36 and 42 can be expressed as;

36 = 2 x 2 x 3 x 3

42 = 2 x 3 x 7 

LCM (36, 42) = 2 x 2 x 3 x 3 x 7 = 252

LCM of 36 and 42 Using Division Method

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

LCM (36, 42) = 2 x 2 x 3 x 3 x 7 = 252

LCM of 36 and 42 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 36 and 42;

LCM (36, 42) = 252

Related Articles

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

Video Lesson on Applications of LCM

Solved Examples 

1. What is the smallest number that is divisible by both 36 and 42?

Answer: 252 is the smallest number that is divisible by both 36 and 42. 

2. What is the LCM for 1, 36 and 42? 

Answer: LCM for 1, 36 and 42 is 252.