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Chapter 2—Integers

2-2 Comparing Integer Values

When you complete the work for this section, you should be able to:
  • Demonstrate how to use the integer number line to compare integer values.
  • Use the three comparison symbols to show the relative values of two integers.
  • Explain how any negative integer is less than zero.
  • Explain how any negative integer is less than any positive integer.
 

The values of integers increase from left-to-right along the number line.
The values of integers decrease from right-to-left along the number line.

fig0202_01.jpg (14701 bytes)
The integer number line.


Comparing Integers

Examples

4 > 1 4 is greater than one. Why? Because 4 is located to the right of 1 on the integer number line.
0 < 3 0 is less than 3. Why? Because 0 is located to the left of 3 on the integer number line.
– 1 <  4 – 1 (minus-one) is less than 4. Why? Because –1 is located to the left of 4 ( or + 4) on the integer number line.
– 3  > – 5 – 3 (minus-three) is greater than minus – 5. Why? Because – 3 is located to the right of – 5 on the integer number line.

Exercises

Comparing Integer Values

Work these endless  exercises until you are consistently providing the correct answers.

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