For more practice comparing numbers using the symbols (<, >, =), you could go to our Interactive Math Zone where you can generate worksheets according to your needs and get them marked online.
The following diagram shows how the number line can be used to compare numbers. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions on how to compare numbers.
We could use a number line to help us compare numbers. On a number line, a number to the right is always greater than a number that is to the left.
For example,
3 is greater than 1 because it is to the right of 1
–2 is greater than –4 because it is to the right of –4
The symbols used for greater than and less than are:
> means ‘greater than’
< means ‘less than’
Example:
10 > 6 (read as 10 is greater than 6)
– 3 < 1 ( read as –3 is less than 1 )
Example:
Write the relationship between each pair of numbers using the symbols ‘<’ or ‘>’.
a) –2, –5
b) 0.35, 0.4
c)
Solution:
a) –2 > –5
b) 0.35 < 0.4
c)
Take note that:
x < y is the same as y > x
For example:
10 > 8 is equivalent to 8 < 10
–2 < –1 is equivalent to –1 > –2
Try the free Mathway calculator and
problem solver below to practice various math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own
problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.
We welcome your feedback, comments and questions about this site or page. Please submit your feedback or enquiries via our Feedback page.