Compare three-digit numbers

Comparison of three-digit whole numbers is determined by place value: compare the hundreds digits first, and if they are equal, compare tens digits, then ones digits. This understanding connects the written numerals, quantities, and positions on a number line, supports accurate use of $>$ , $<$ , and $=$ , and prevents judging numbers by an isolated digit or by the apparent size of a digit rather than its place.

Detailed Explanation: Compare three-digit numbers

To compare three-digit numbers, look at their place values from left to right:

Compare the hundreds digits.
If they are the same, compare the tens digits.
If those are the same, compare the ones digits.
Write $>$ for “greater than,” $<$ for “less than,” or $=$ for “equal to.”

Example: Compare $(472)$ and $(459)$ .

Line up the place values:

\begin{array}{ccc} \text{Hundreds} & \text{Tens} & \text{Ones}\\ 4 & 7 & 2\\ 4 & 5 & 9 \end{array}

The hundreds digits are both $4$ , so they are equal.
Compare the tens digits: $7$ is greater than $5$ .
We can stop because the tens place decides which number is greater.

So,

472>459

Remember to compare digits by their place, not just by how the digits look.

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