What Do Greater Than and Less Than Symbols Mean?
Greater than (>) and less than (<) symbols are mathematical notations used to compare numbers, quantities, or values. These symbols help determine which number is larger or smaller in a given equation or inequality.
- > (Greater than) means the left number is larger.
- < (Less than) means the left number is smaller.
- = (Equal to) means both numbers have the same value.
These symbols are essential in arithmetic, algebra, and real-life scenarios like budgeting, measurements, and data analysis.
What is the Greater Than Sign (>)?
The greater than symbol (>) indicates that the number on the left is larger than the number on the right.
Examples:
- 5 > 3 (5 is greater than 3)
- 10 > 7 (10 is greater than 7)
- -2 > -5 (-2 is greater than -5 because -2 is closer to zero)
What is the Less Than Sign (<)?
The less than symbol (<) means the number on the left is smaller than the number on the right.
Examples:
- 3 < 5 (3 is less than 5)
- 7 < 10 (7 is less than 10)
- -5 < -2 (-5 is less than -2 because it is further from zero)
What is the Equal to Sign (=)?
The equal to sign (=) shows that two numbers or expressions have the same value.
Examples:
- 4 = 4
- 2 + 3 = 5
- 10 – 7 = 3
Comparison of Numbers Using >, <, and =
When comparing numbers:
- Align digits properly (compare from left to right).
- For decimals, compare whole numbers first, then decimal places.
- For negative numbers, the one closer to zero is greater.
Solved Examples:
| Comparison | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 8 > 6 | 8 is greater than 6 |
| 4 < 9 | 4 is less than 9 |
| 5 = 5 | Both numbers are equal |
Tricks to Remember Greater Than and Less Than Symbols
Many students confuse > and <. Here’s an easy trick:
✅ Think of the symbol as an alligator’s mouth – it always opens towards the larger number!
- 5 > 3 → The alligator eats the bigger number (5).
- 2 < 7 → The alligator eats the bigger number (7).
Another trick:
- > looks like a slanted “L” for “Less than”? No! So, it must be “Greater than.”
- < is the opposite.
Table Showing Comparison Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| > | Greater Than | Left number is larger |
| < | Less Than | Left number is smaller |
| = | Equal To | Both numbers are the same |
More Examples of Greater Than and Less Than Symbols
- 15 > 10 (Fifteen is greater than ten)
- 20 < 25 (Twenty is less than twenty-five)
- 0 > -1 (Zero is greater than negative one)
- 3.5 < 4.2 (Three point five is less than four point two)
Practice Questions on Greater Than and Less Than
Test your understanding with these problems:
- Fill in the correct symbol (>, <, or =):
- 12 __ 9
- 6 __ 6
- -3 __ 0
- 4.5 __ 4.2
- Which is greater: 7 or 11?
- Which is smaller: -2 or -5?
(Answers: 1. >, =, <, > | 2. 11 > 7 | 3. -5 < -2)
Conclusion
Understanding greater than (>) and less than (<) symbols is crucial in math and everyday comparisons. Remember the alligator trick, practice with examples, and solve problems to master these concepts.
Now that you know how to use these symbols, try applying them in real-life situations like shopping discounts, temperature comparisons, or even sports scores!