The L.C.M. of $\frac{1}{3}, \frac{5}{6}, \frac{2}{9}, \frac{4}{27}$ is
Aptitude
HCF and LCM
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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A$\frac{1}{54}$
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B$\frac{10}{27}$
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C$\frac{20}{3}$
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DNone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: $\frac{20}{3}$
Explanation
### Concept & Formula
To find the Least Common Multiple (LCM) of a set of fractions, we use the standard formula:
$$\text{L.C.M. of fractions} = \frac{\text{L.C.M. of Numerators}}{\text{H.C.F. of Denominators}}$$
### Step-by-Step Solution
* **Given Fractions:** $\frac{1}{3}$, $\frac{5}{6}$, $\frac{2}{9}$, and $\frac{4}{27}$.
* **Step 1: Calculate the L.C.M. of the numerators ($1, 5, 2, 4$).**
The multiples of the highest number ($5$) that are also divisible by $4$ and $2$ is $20$.
$$\text{L.C.M. (1, 5, 2, 4)} = 20$$
* **Step 2: Calculate the H.C.F. of the denominators ($3, 6, 9, 27$).**
The factors are $3$, $2 \times 3$, $3^2$, and $3^3$. The highest common factor shared by all is clearly $3$.
$$\text{H.C.F. (3, 6, 9, 27)} = 3$$
* **Step 3: Assemble the fraction.**
$$\text{Result} = \frac{20}{3}$$
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
First, scan the numerators: $1, 5, 2, 4$. Their L.C.M. is obviously $20$. Look at the options—only option (c) has $20$ in the numerator. You can confidently select (c) without even calculating the H.C.F. for the denominators.
### Common Pitfall
Students often mix up the formula, calculating the L.C.M. of the denominators and the H.C.F. of the numerators (which would give $\frac{1}{54}$, option a). Remember: "Whatever they ask for goes on top." If they ask for L.C.M., put L.C.M. in the numerator.
### Final Answer
**Therefore, the correct answer is $\frac{20}{3}$.**