Comparing Numbers

When we compare numbers, we are looking at their values and determining their relationship to each other. In mathematics, we use comparison symbols to compare numbers:

• Greater than: > - This symbol is used to show that one number is larger than another.
• Less than: < - This symbol is used to show that one number is smaller than another.
• Greater than or equal to: ≥ - This symbol is used to show that one number is either larger than or equal to another.
• Less than or equal to: ≤ - This symbol is used to show that one number is either smaller than or equal to another.

Examples:

Let's compare the numbers 8 and 5 using the comparison symbols:

8 > 5 - 8 is greater than 5

5 < 8 - 5 is less than 8

8 ≥ 5 - 8 is greater than or equal to 5

5 ≤ 8 - 5 is less than or equal to 8

Study Guide:

Here are the steps to follow when comparing numbers:

1. Identify the numbers you need to compare.
2. Use the appropriate comparison symbol to compare the numbers. Remember, the open end of the symbol always points to the smaller number.
3. Read the comparison aloud to understand the relationship between the numbers.
4. Practice comparing numbers with different sets of numbers to reinforce the concept.

Remember, comparing numbers is an important skill in mathematics and is used in various mathematical operations and problem-solving scenarios.