Least common multiple
The smallest positive common multiple of positive integers.
Key knowledge
For positive integers a and b, their least common multiple is the smallest positive integer divisible by both. In prime factorizations, retain the largest multiplicity of each prime appearing in either number. This supplies a common denominator for fractions with positive denominators.
Conditions and scope
- Inputs are positive integers; the number 1 has an empty prime factorization.
- A product denominator is also valid for fraction addition and need not be the least common denominator.
Sources · 2
References
Sources retain their recorded scope. A source link alone does not establish verification of every statement.
Evidence and review
The smallest positive common multiple of positive integers.
2026-10-10 · Independent Physics and Measurement reference editor (AI editorial bounded review). Exact bounded introductory reference claims and this practical concept inventory are approved after closure. Existing university/research proof and source scopes remain separate; no universal knowledge-completeness or experimental-validation assertion.
Foundational review
2026-10-10 · Independent AI editorial inspection of this new compact reference entry, its equations, applicability, sources and knowledge connections.
Sources from other places
Scope or convention differs
Least common multiples use the maximum needed exponent of each prime.
The repository explicitly includes positive inputs and the special case of 1.
Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute and University of Melbourne
- TIMES · Primes and prime factorisation AustraliaEnglish
The LCM and HCF; Maximum prime-index worked example
- TIMES · Primes and prime factorisation
Entry details
Permanent link to this entry ↗- Record identity
- foundation-math-least-common-multiple
- Revision
- foundations-audit.1
- Structured reference record
- Foundational core completion