๐ Understanding 'Greater Than' (>)
The 'greater than' symbol (>) shows that one value is larger than another. Imagine it like a hungry alligator โ it always wants to eat the bigger number!
- ๐ Definition: Indicates a number is larger than another.
- โ๏ธ Example: $5 > 3$ (5 is greater than 3).
- ๐ก Tip: Think of it as an alligator's mouth opening towards the larger number.
๐ข Understanding 'Less Than' (<)
The 'less than' symbol (<) shows that one value is smaller than another. It's the opposite of 'greater than'.
- ๐ Definition: Indicates a number is smaller than another.
- โ๏ธ Example: $2 < 7$ (2 is less than 7).
- ๐ก Tip: The small end points to the smaller number.
๐ Greater Than vs. Less Than: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature |
Greater Than (>) |
Less Than (<) |
| Definition |
Indicates that a value is larger |
Indicates that a value is smaller |
| Symbol Direction |
Opens towards the larger number |
Points towards the smaller number |
| Example |
$9 > 1$ (9 is greater than 1) |
$4 < 6$ (4 is less than 6) |
| Mnemonic Device |
Alligator eats the bigger number. |
The small end shows what's "less". |
๐ Key Takeaways
- ๐ The 'greater than' (>) symbol points to the smaller number.
- ๐งช The 'less than' (<) symbol points to the smaller number.
- ๐ก Remembering the alligator analogy can help you quickly identify which symbol to use.