What is LCM function in Excel?
LCM function is one of the Math and Trig functions in Microsoft Excel that returns the least common multiple of integers. The least common multiple is the smallest positive integer that is a multiple of all integer arguments number1, number2, and so on. Use LCM to add fractions with different denominators.
Syntax of LCM function
LCM(number1, [number2], …)
The LCM function syntax has the following arguments:
- Number1, number2,… Number1 is required, subsequent numbers are optional. 1 to 255 values for which you want the least common multiple. If value is not an integer, it is truncated.
LCM formula explanation
- If any argument is nonnumeric, LCM returns the #VALUE! error value.
- If any argument is less than zero, LCM returns the #NUM! error value.
- If LCM(a,b) >=2^53, LCM returns the #NUM! error value.
Example of LCM function
Steps to follow:
1. Open a new Excel worksheet.
2. Copy data in the following table below and paste it in cell A1
Note: For formulas to show results, select them, press F2 key on your keyboard and then press Enter.
You can adjust the column widths to see all the data, if need be.
| Formula | Description | Result |
| =LCM(5, 2) | Least common multiple of 5 and 2 | 10 |
| =LCM(24, 36) | Least common multiple of 24 and 36 | 72 |