Comparing Integers
Comparing integers uses the same >, <, and = symbols as comparing whole numbers – but with one idea that trips up many learners at first: once negative numbers are involved, “more negative” means smaller, not bigger. -10 is less than -2, even though 10 is a bigger number than 2, because -10 sits further to the left on the number line.
This is exactly why the number line (covered a couple of pages ago) is such a powerful tool: instead of memorising rules, you can simply picture the two integers as points and see directly which one is further right (the greater one).
The Rule for Comparing Integers
On the number line, whichever integer is further to the right is the greater one – this works the same way whether both numbers are positive, both negative, or one of each.
-3 is further right on the number line than -8, so -8 is less than -3: -8 < -3.
Any negative number is always less than any positive number: -5 < 2.
Real-Life Application
- Temperatures: -10°C is colder (less) than -2°C.
- Bank balances: a debt of -$50 is worse (less) than a debt of -$10.
- Golf scores: -6 (six under par) beats -2 in golf, since lower scores win.
Key Takeaways
- On the number line, the integer further right is always the greater one.
- Among negative numbers, the one closer to zero is greater (-3 > -8).
- Any positive number is greater than any negative number.
Practice: Comparing Integers
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