Question

What is the least common denominator of `1/2, 1/4, and 3/8`?

Answer 1

The least common denominator is `8`

Explanation:

Given: `1/2, 1/4, 3/8`. Find the least common denominator

The least common denominator is the Least Common Multiple (LCM) of the three denominators.

To find the LCM, write multiples of the three denominators:
`2: 2, 4, 6, color(red)(8), 10, 12, ...`

`4: 4, color(red)(8), 12, 16, 20, ...`

`8: color(red)(8), 16, 24, 32, ...`

The LCM is the smallest multiple that is common to all three: `8`

This means the least common denominator is `8`

Answer 2

`LCM =8`

Explanation:

In this case you should notice that `2 and 4` are both factors of `8`.

`8` is therefore the LCM because it is divisible by all three denominators.