Syntax
LCM(number1, [number2, ...])
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| number1 | Parameter of the LCM function. |
| [number2 | (Optional.) Parameter of the LCM function. |
| ...] | Parameter of the LCM function. |
Examples
Scheduling overlap
Formula
=LCM(4, 6)
Returns 12. If task A repeats every 4 days and task B every 6 days, they'll coincide every 12 days.
Common denominator
Formula
=LCM(3, 5, 7)
Returns 105. To add fractions with denominators 3, 5, and 7, use 105 as the common denominator.
Machine sync
Formula
=LCM(15, 20, 25)
Returns 300. Three machines with cycle times of 15, 20, and 25 seconds all complete a cycle together every 300 seconds (5 minutes).
Common Errors
#NUM!
Negative numbers are not accepted. LCM requires non-negative integers.
#VALUE!
Non-numeric arguments return #VALUE!.
Tips
LCM × GCD = product
For two numbers: LCM(a,b) × GCD(a,b) = a × b. You can verify your results using this relationship.
Scheduling applications
When multiple events have different repeat intervals, LCM tells you when they'll all happen simultaneously again.
Can get very large
LCM of several numbers can be enormous. LCM(12,18,25,7) = 1260. Watch for overflow with many large inputs.
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