What Are HCF and LCM Questions?

HCF (Highest Common Factor) and LCM (Lowest Common Multiple) are two important terms in mathematics. HCF is the largest integer that divides two or more numbers without leaving any remainder. For example, the HCF of 12, 16 and 24 is 4. Similarly, LCM is the smallest number that can be divided by the two or more numbers without leaving any remainder. For example, the LCM of 12, 16 and 24 is 48.

How to Solve HCF and LCM Questions?

The best way to solve HCF and LCM questions is to use the prime factorization method. This method involves breaking down a number into its prime factors and then finding the HCF and LCM from there. For example, to find the HCF and LCM of 12, 16 and 24, first we need to break them down into their prime factors.

Prime Factors of 12, 16 and 24

The prime factors of 12 are 2 x 2 x 3. The prime factors of 16 are 2 x 2 x 2 x 2. The prime factors of 24 are 2 x 2 x 2 x 3. We can see that the common prime factors of 12, 16 and 24 are 2 and 3.

HCF and LCM of 12, 16 and 24

The HCF of 12, 16 and 24 is 2 x 3 = 6. The LCM of 12, 16 and 24 is 2 x 2 x 2 x 3 = 24. Therefore, the HCF of 12, 16 and 24 is 6 and the LCM of 12, 16 and 24 is 24.

Conclusion

HCF and LCM questions can be solved easily by using the prime factorization method. It is important to understand the concept of prime factors and how to find them before attempting to solve HCF and LCM questions. With practice, anyone can easily solve these types of questions.