Euclidean Algorithm: GCD, Formula,
The Euclidean Algorithm is a simple and efficient method used to find the greatest common divisor
(GCD) of two numbers. It works by repeatedly dividing the larger number by the smaller one and
using the remainder until the remainder becomes zero.
This algorithm has practical uses in areas like simplifying fractions and number theory. An extension
of this, the Extended Euclidean Algorithm, not only finds the GCD but also helps in solving linear
Diophantine equations.
What is Euclidean Algorithm?
The Euclidean Algorithm is a method used to efficiently calculate the greatest common divisor (GCD)
of two numbers.
The GCD of two numbers is the largest number that divides both of them without leaving a
remainder.
The algorithm was first introduced by the ancient Greek mathematician Euclid, and it remains one of
the most important and widely used algorithms in number theory today.
How Euclidean Algorithm Works?
Start with Two Numbers: Choose two numbers for which you want to find the GCD. Let’s call
them A (the larger number) and B (the smaller number).
Divide the Larger Number by the Smaller Number: Divide A by B. Write down the quotient
(ignore this for now) and note the remainder.
Replace and Repeat: Replace A with B, and B with the remainder from the previous step.
Continue Dividing: Repeat the process: Divide the new A by the new B, and continue finding
the remainder.
Stop When the Remainder is Zero: Keep repeating the process until the remainder becomes
zero. When this happens, the last non-zero number is the GCD of the original two numbers.
