The L.C.M. of $\frac{3}{4}, \frac{6}{7}, \frac{9}{8}$ is
Aptitude
HCF and LCM
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
-
A3
-
B6
-
C9
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D18
Answer
Correct Answer: 18
Explanation
### Concept & Formula
To evaluate the Least Common Multiple (LCM) of given fractions, the corresponding rule is:
$$\text{L.C.M. of fractions} = \frac{\text{L.C.M. of Numerators}}{\text{H.C.F. of Denominators}}$$
### Step-by-Step Solution
* **Given Fractions:** $\frac{3}{4}$, $\frac{6}{7}$, and $\frac{9}{8}$.
* **Step 1: Determine the L.C.M. of numerators ($3, 6, 9$).**
The numbers are $3$, $2 \times 3$, and $3^2$. The L.C.M. is $2 \times 3^2 = 18$.
* **Step 2: Determine the H.C.F. of denominators ($4, 7, 8$).**
The factors are $2^2$, $7$, and $2^3$. Since $7$ is a prime number and doesn't divide $4$ or $8$, the only common factor is $1$.
* **Step 3: Final Calculation.**
$$\text{Result} = \frac{18}{1} = 18$$
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Recognize immediately that the denominator $7$ is prime, while $4$ and $8$ are powers of $2$. Their H.C.F. must be $1$. Thus, the answer is just the L.C.M. of $3, 6$, and $9$. Since $18$ is the smallest number divisible by all three, the answer is $18$. Takes 5 seconds visually.
### Common Pitfall
Students might mistakenly calculate the L.C.M. of both numerator and denominator, or just focus on the largest numbers. Another mistake is choosing $9$ (option c) by just looking at the largest numerator, forgetting that $9$ is not divisible by $6$.
### Final Answer
**Therefore, the correct answer is 18.**