Please help

[samoangirl_91]

If "a" is a factor of "b", find the following:

1. The GCF of "a" and "b"
2. The LCM of "a" and "b"

I don't know how to find the value of "a" or "b"...If you could help me with this, i'd be so thankful! ;O)

 

[mmm4444bot]

If "a" is a factor of "b", find the following:

1. The GCF of "a" and "b"
2. The LCM of "a" and "b"

I don't know how to find the value of "a" or "b" …

Ahh, finding values for a and b, huh? That's not what this exercise requires. You do not need to report any Real numbers for either of these exercises.

You need to report the GCF and LCM using the variables a and/or b.

In beginning algebra, we need to start thinking symbolically, and we need to read thoughtfully.

For example, what does the phrase "a is a factor of b" mean?

Try to write down a few specific examples using actual Real numbers (i.e., pick any two appropriate Whole numbers for a and b that you like, a different pair for each example that you work through using paper and pencil), and then relate what happens to the corresponding a and b when you find the GCF and LCM using the actual numbers in your examples.

You should see a consistent pattern form; a pattern that will make the GCF of a and b clear.

Now that you understand that the answers have to be written using a and/or b, can you proceed?

If you would like more help, then please ask specific questions, so that we can determine why you're stuck.

If you don't understand any words (eg: factor, GCF, LCM, "a is a factor of b"), or you don't understand how to relate these word to actual number, then you'll need to tell us.

Cheers ~ Mark