Ctrl+k

Compare whole numbers

Comparing whole numbers through 100,000 means determining whether one quantity is greater than, less than, or equal to another by examining digits from the greatest place value to the least and representing the relationship with >, <, or =. Place-value reasoning explains why the first differing digit determines the comparison, while a number line provides a magnitude-based representation; the scope excludes decimals, fractions, negative numbers, and arbitrarily large numbers.

Detailed Explanation: Compare whole numbers

To compare two whole numbers, compare their digits from left to right, starting with the greatest place value:

  1. Ten-thousands
  2. Thousands
  3. Hundreds
  4. Tens
  5. Ones

The first place where the digits are different tells you which number is greater.

Example: Compare (47,382)(47{,}382) and (47,829)(47{,}829).

Write the numbers by place value:

47,38247,829\begin{array}{r} 47{,}382\\ 47{,}829 \end{array}
  • The ten-thousands digits are both 44, so compare the next place.
  • The thousands digits are both 77, so compare the next place.
  • The hundreds digits are 33 and 88. Since (8>3)(8>3), (47,829)(47{,}829) is greater.

Therefore:

47,382<47,82947{,}382<47{,}829

On a number line, (47,382)(47{,}382) would be to the left of (47,829)(47{,}829), because numbers farther to the right are greater.

Learn by doing: Compare whole numbers

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

    Practice with unlimited practice problems

    Compare Five-Digit Numbers to 100,000

      ?