Greater than and less than symbols | Applying mathematical reasoning | Pre-Algebra | Khan Academy

TL;DR

Mathematical symbols like the equal sign, greater than symbol, and less than symbol are used to compare and express relationships between quantities in mathematics.

Transcript

Most of us are familiar with the equal sign from our earliest days of arithmetic. You might see something like 1 plus 1 is equal to 2. Now, a lot of people might think when they see something like this that somehow equal means give me the answer. 1 plus 1 is the problem. Equal means give me the answer and 1 plus 1 is 2. That's not what equal actual... Read More

Key Insights

• 🟰 The equal sign in mathematics is used for comparing two quantities, not just finding answers.
• ↔️ The greater than symbol ">" indicates that the left side quantity is larger than the right side.
• ↔️ The less than symbol "<" indicates that the left side quantity is smaller than the right side.
• 😑 These symbols can be used with numbers or expressions.

Questions & Answers

Q: What does the equal sign represent in mathematics?

In mathematics, the equal sign is used to compare two quantities and shows that they are exactly the same. It does not indicate a request for the answer.

Q: How can the greater than symbol be read?

The greater than symbol, ">", is read as "is greater than." It indicates that the quantity on the left side of the symbol is larger than the one on the right.

Q: Is it possible to use expressions with the greater than symbol?

Yes, the greater than symbol can be used with expressions. For example, "1 + 1 + 1" can be greater than "1 + 1", indicating that the quantity on the left is larger.

Q: What does the less than symbol represent?

The less than symbol, "<," is used to compare quantities and indicates that the quantity on the left side of the symbol is smaller than the one on the right. It can also be read as "is less than."

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The equal sign is used to compare two quantities and shows that they are exactly the same.

• The greater than symbol ">" is used to compare quantities and indicates that the quantity on the left is larger than the one on the right.

• The less than symbol "<" is used to compare quantities and indicates that the quantity on the left is smaller than the one on the right.