Skill: Justify a comparison

To compare two whole numbers, first compare the tens. If the tens are the same, compare the ones. Then use a comparison symbol:

• $>$ means “greater than”
• $<$ means “less than”
• $=$ means “equal to”

Example: Compare $(47)$ and $(52)$.

1. Look at the tens digits:
   • $(47)$ has $4$ ten.
   • $(52)$ has $5$ tens.
2. Since $4$ tens is less than $5$ tens, $(47)$ is less than $(52)$.
3. Write the comparison:

$$47<52$$

This is true because $(47)$ comes before $(52)$ on a number line.