Comparing numbers is a basic math skill, but it’s used in so many different areas, from simple calculations to complex computer programming. The “greater than” and “less than” symbols are how we show the relationship between two numbers.
This article will explain how to compare numbers and use the greater than and less than symbols correctly. You can also use our tool, the “greater than and less than calculator,” to check your work.
Understanding “greater than” and “less than”
You probably already know what “greater than” and “less than” mean, but here’s a quick refresher.
Defining “greater than”
If one number is larger or more significant than another, we say it’s “greater than” that number. The symbol for “greater than” is >. The wide end of the symbol faces the larger number.
Defining “less than”
If one number is smaller or less significant than another, we say it’s “less than” that number. The symbol for “less than” is <. The pointed end of the symbol faces the smaller number.
Memory trick
Here’s a trick to remember which symbol to use: All the Spider People are greater than just one Spider-Ham. And one Spider-Ham is less than all the Spider People.
How to compare numbers
Comparing numbers is straightforward once you understand the relationship between positive and negative numbers.
Comparing positive numbers
With positive numbers, the further a number is from zero, the greater its value. For example, 5 is greater than 3, so we write it like this: 5 > 3.
Comparing negative numbers
It’s the opposite with negative numbers: the further a number is from zero, the less its value. For example, -9 is less than -6, so we write it like this: -9 < -6.
Comparing numbers with different signs
Any positive number is always greater than any negative number.
Here’s a three-step process for comparing any two numbers:
- First, determine whether the numbers are both positive or both negative.
- If they have different signs, the positive number is greater.
- If they have the same sign, the number further from zero is greater (if they’re positive) or less (if they’re negative).
How are “greater than” and “less than” used?
You’ll find “greater than” and “less than” symbols everywhere in math. But they’re especially important in programming. Computer languages such as Javascript and Python rely on these comparisons. For example, many “if/else” statements use these symbols to determine the correct output.
These comparisons allow the computer to make decisions based on whether one value is higher or lower than another.
Summary
Knowing how to compare numbers using “greater than” and “less than” isn’t just important for math class. It’s also a key skill for programming and understanding how computers work.