To find the least common multiple (LCM) of the numbers 6 and 8, we can use the prime factorization method.
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Prime factorization:
- The prime factorization of 6 is \(2^1 \times 3^1\).
- The prime factorization of 8 is \(2^3\).
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LCM calculation:
- For each prime factor, take the highest power that appears in the factorizations.
- For the prime number 2, the highest power is \(2^3\).
- For the prime number 3, the highest power is \(3^1\).
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Calculating the LCM: \[ LCM = 2^3 \times 3^1 = 8 \times 3 = 24 \]
Thus, the LCM of 6 and 8 is 24.
So the answer is B. 24.