Can we compare decimals too?

Yes you can. Like this 0.34 > 0.23 or 0.45 < 0.87

If 50<61 can be written as 61>50, then why do we need both the symbols? Can't we just use one of them?

because in more complicated problems you can come across equations that use both or won't be the same backwards and forwards.

Main content

Lesson 3: Comparing 2-digit numbers

Review greater than, less than, and equal to symbols and try some practice problems.

When we compare numbers, we can use symbols to show if the first number is

greater than

less than

, or

equal to

the second number.

The symbol for

greater than

>

19

greater than

4

. So, we can use the

>

symbol and write

19 > 4

The symbol for

less than

<

23

less than

80

. So, we can use the

<

symbol and write

23 < 80

One way to remember the symbols is that the larger, open side of the symbol should always face the greater number.

The symbol for

equal to

=

35

equal to

35

. So, we can use the

=

symbol and write

35 = 35

Want to learn more about comparison symbols? Check out this video.

Problem 1

Fill in the blank.

48

43

Want to try more problems like this? Check out this exercise.

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