Compare simple decimals to tenths

Comparing decimals to tenths involves interpreting a decimal as a whole-number part and a tenths part, then using place value to determine which quantity is greater, less, or equal. A number line and equivalent fraction notation (such as 0.6 = 6/10) reinforce that, after comparing whole-number parts, tenths determine the order; the scope is numbers with at most one decimal digit, not hundredths or more general decimal expansions.

Detailed Explanation: Compare simple decimals to tenths

To compare decimals to tenths, look at the whole-number part first. If the whole-number parts are equal, compare the tenths digits.

Example: Compare $2.6$ and $2.4$

Compare the whole-number parts.
Both numbers have $2$ whole ones:

2.6 \quad \text{and} \quad 2.4

Compare the tenths.
The number $2.6$ has $6$ tenths, and $2.4$ has $4$ tenths:

2.6=\frac{26}{10}, \qquad 2.4=\frac{24}{10}

Since $6$ tenths is greater than $4$ tenths, $2.6$ is greater.

Write the comparison.

\boxed{2.6>2.4}

On a number line, $2.6$ is to the right of $2.4$ , so it has the greater value.

Learn by doing: Compare simple decimals to tenths

Click a topic below to practice the foundational skills you'll need, learn the steps, or master this skill

Practice with unlimited practice problems

Decimal Concept Comparison - Decimal Number Tenths vs Fraction Tenths

Earned ?