What is the least common denominator (LCD) of 4 and 6?

The least common denominator (LCD) is the smallest multiple that two or more denominators have in common. To find the LCD of 4 and 6, we first list the multiples of each number:

• The multiples of 4 are: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, …
• The multiples of 6 are: 6, 12, 18, 24, …

Next, we identify the common multiples of both lists. The first common multiple that appears in both lists is 12. Therefore, 12 is the smallest multiple that both denominators share, making it the least common denominator.

In this case, since 12 is the smallest shared multiple between 4 and 6, it is indeed the correct answer. This concept is crucial in fraction addition or subtraction where finding a common denominator is necessary to combine fractions effectively.