5. What is the L.C.M of 16 and 24 ? \( \begin{array}{lll}\text { (a] } 40 & \text { [b] } 48 & \text { [c] } 24\end{array} \)

To find the L.C.M. (Least Common Multiple) of 16 and 24, we can list their multiples or use the prime factorization method. The prime factorization of 16 is \(2^4\) and for 24 is \(2^3 \times 3^1\). The L.C.M. is calculated by taking the highest power of each prime factor present: \(2^4\) and \(3^1\). Therefore, the L.C.M. is \(2^4 \times 3^1 = 16 \times 3 = 48\). So, the answer is **(b) 48**! For a quick tip, always remember to check your calculations with the multiples. The multiples of 16 are 16, 32, 48... and for 24 are 24, 48... You can see 48 is the first common one, making it easier than staring at numbers. Always double-check your work to avoid common mistakes like miscalculating powers during factorization!