Finding Least Common Multiples and Prime Factorization

In this video, Jimmy Chang explains how to find the least common multiple (LCM) using prime factorization, a crucial concept in pre-algebra and elementary algebra. The process involves creating factoring trees for each number, identifying the highest number of each factor, and multiplying them to find the LCM. The video provides a detailed example using the numbers 12 and 18, demonstrating the step-by-step method to calculate the LCM. The tutorial concludes with a summary of the process, emphasizing the importance of prime factorization in finding the LCM.

What is the primary purpose of finding the least common multiple using prime factorization?

• To find the least common denominator

• To simplify fractions

• To solve quadratic equations

• To calculate percentages

Why is prime factorization important in algebra courses?

• It helps in solving linear equations

• It lays the foundation for finding the least common denominator

• It simplifies calculus problems

• It is used in geometry

Which two numbers are commonly used to start the factor tree for 12?

• 3 and 3

• 5 and 2

• 4 and 3

• 6 and 2

What is the prime factorization of 12?

• 4 * 3

• 3 * 3 * 2

• 2 * 2 * 3

• 6 * 2

Which pair of numbers can be used to start the factor tree for 18?

• 6 and 3

• 9 and 2

• 5 and 3

• 4 and 4

What is the prime factorization of 18?

• 2 * 3 * 3

• 3 * 3 * 2

• 4 * 4

• 6 * 3

When comparing factors to find the LCM, which number has more twos?

• 12

• 18

• Both have the same

• Neither has twos

When comparing factors to find the LCM, which number has more threes?

• Neither has threes

• 12

• 18

• Both have the same

What should you do if both numbers have the same number of a particular factor when finding the LCM?

• Multiply the factors

• Ignore the factor

• Circle only one set of factors

• Circle both sets of factors

What is the result of multiplying the selected factors to find the LCM of 12 and 18?

• 48

• 36

• 24

• 60