Greater Than Symbol

 

The greater than symbol (>) is a fundamental mathematical sign used to compare two values where the first value is bigger than the second. Whether in arithmetic, algebra, or real-life comparisons, this symbol plays a crucial role.

 For example, 8 > 5 shows that 8 is greater than 5. The symbol itself looks like a closing angle bracket. One of its common uses is in arranging numbers in descending order. For instance, when we write 20 > 15 > 10 > 5, we are showing the order from the largest number to the smallest number using the greater than symbol.

Let’s explore what is greater than symbol, how to use it, its visual interpretation, and some solved examples.

 

Table of Contents

• What is the Greater Than Symbol?
• Symbol and Meaning
• Greater Than Examples
• How to Use Greater Than Symbol?
• Greater Than vs Less Than
• Greater Than or Equal To
• Word Problems Using Greater Than Symbol
• Conclusion
• Faqs on Greater Than Symbol

 

What is the Greater Than Symbol? 

The greater than symbol (>) is used to express that one value is larger than another. It opens towards the larger value. For instance:

• 7 > 3 (7 is greater than 3)
  
  

This basic comparison sign is widely used in mathematics, computer programming, and day-to-day numeric analysis.

 

Symbol and Meaning

Here’s a table showcasing the greater than symbol and its related symbols:

The greater than symbol is always used when one value exceeds the other. It’s important to distinguish it from its opposite, the less than symbol (<).

 

Greater Than Examples

Let’s see a few simple greater than examples:

• 5 > 2 → 5 is greater than 2

• 10 > 7 → 10 is greater than 7

• 1.5 > 1.2 → 1.5 is greater than 1.2

• -1 > -3 → In negative numbers, -1 is greater than -3
  
  

These examples clarify how the greater than symbol is used across positive and negative values.

 

How to Use Greater Than Symbol? 

The best trick to remember the greater than sign is the alligator method. Think of the symbol as an alligator’s mouth - it always opens toward the bigger number because the alligator wants to eat more!

Example:
8 > 3 (The alligator opens its mouth toward 8)

In descending order, the greater than symbol helps compare values like:

15 > 10 > 5 > 2

This way, students can visualize number arrangements and apply inequality logic effectively.

 

Greater Than vs Less Than

Both represent comparisons but in reverse order. In 8 > 6, 8 is greater. In 6 < 8, 6 is lesser. The meaning remains the same.

 

Greater Than or Equal To

Sometimes we come across situations where the answer to a problem for a variable shows that one value is either bigger than or exactly the same as another value. In such cases, we use the greater than or equal to sign, written as ≥. For example, x ≥ -3 means that the value of x can be -3 or any number greater than -3. This way the symbol tells us that the variable can take two kinds of values, either equal to the number given or any number more than it.

 

Word Problems Using Greater Than Symbol 

Example 1 :

Let’s solve a real-life example:

Problem:
Ramya has ₹500 in her savings account. She withdraws ₹25 every week. She wants at least ₹200 by summer’s end. Find the inequality.

Solution:

• Let x = number of weeks

• She withdraws ₹25 weekly → Total withdrawn = 25x

• Remaining amount ≥ ₹200
  
  

Inequality:
500 - 25x ≥ 200

This shows how greater than or equal to symbols are used in practical math situations.

Example 2 : We are given two pairs of numbers:

1. -18 and -25

2. -1.5 and -1.8

Step 1: Compare -18 and -25

• Both numbers are negative.

• A negative number means it is less than zero.

• The rule is: The negative number closer to zero is always greater.

Think of it like temperature:

• At -18°C, it is cold.

• At -25°C, it is even colder.
  Since -18 is closer to zero than -25, it is the greater number.

Therefore: -18 > -25

Step 2: Compare -1.5 and -1.8

• Both numbers are also negative.

• -1.5 means one and a half units below zero.

• -1.8 means one point eight units below zero.

• Since -1.5 is closer to zero, it is the greater number.

Think of it like money:

• If you owe ₹1.50, and your friend owes ₹1.80, the person owing ₹1.50 is in a better position because the debt is smaller.

Therefore: -1.5 > -1.8

Conclusion 

The greater than symbol is one of the most basic yet essential tools in mathematics. Whether comparing prices, solving equations, or arranging numbers in order, this sign helps build a strong foundation in number logic. By understanding what is greater than symbol, its variations, and its real-life applications, students can develop sharper problem-solving skills.

Frequently Asked Questions on Greater Than Symbol

Q1. What is the greater than symbol?

 Answer.The greater than symbol (>) is used to compare two values where the first is larger than the second.

Q2. What is the symbol for greater than or equal to?

Answer. It is represented by ≥, which includes both greater and equal values.

Q3. Is 0.5 > 0.25? 

Answer.Yes, 0.5 is greater than 0.25. So, 0.5 > 0.25.

Q4. Which is greater: ⅗ or ½?

 Answer.⅗ > ½ since 0.6 > 0.5

Q5. Can we use the greater than symbol in word problems?

Answer.Absolutely! It’s widely used in comparing quantities and creating inequality equations.

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