Multiples are the results of multiplying a number by whole numbers. For example, the multiples of 3 include 3, 6, 9, 12, and so on. Each multiple is found by taking 3 and multiplying it by 1, 2, 3, 4, etc. This concept helps in understanding patterns in numbers and is useful in various areas of mathematics. Multiples can be used to find common factors between numbers. For instance, the multiples of 4 are 4, 8, 12, 16, and so forth. By comparing the multiples of 3 and 4, we can identify their common multiples, such as 12 and 24. This is important in solving problems involving fractions and ratios.