Comparing Numbers: Explanation and Study Guide

What is Comparing Numbers?

Comparing numbers is the process of determining the relationship between two or more numbers. When comparing numbers, we are interested in knowing which number is greater than, less than, or equal to another number.

Comparing Whole Numbers

When comparing whole numbers, we can use the following symbols:

For example:

5 > 3 (5 is greater than 3)
7 < 10 (7 is less than 10)
4 = 4 (4 is equal to 4)

Comparing Decimals

When comparing decimals, we can use the same symbols as for whole numbers. It is important to align the decimal points when comparing decimals. For example:

3.14 > 2.5 (3.14 is greater than 2.5)
0.75 < 1.2 (0.75 is less than 1.2)
5.0 = 5.00 (5.0 is equal to 5.00)

Comparing Fractions

When comparing fractions, we can use the same symbols as for whole numbers and decimals. To compare fractions, it is helpful to find a common denominator. For example:

1/2 > 1/4 (1/2 is greater than 1/4)
3/5 < 4/5 (3/5 is less than 4/5)
2/3 = 4/6 (2/3 is equal to 4/6)

Comparing Study Guide

To effectively compare numbers, follow these steps:

Identify the numbers to be compared.
When comparing whole numbers or decimals, align the numbers on the right side to ensure the place values match up.
Use the appropriate comparison symbol (>, <, =) to compare the numbers.
Remember to read the comparison from left to right. For example, when comparing 5 > 3, read as "5 is greater than 3."
For fractions, find a common denominator if necessary before making the comparison.