Problem 143

Question

If you are given two real numbers, explain how to determine which is the lesser.

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
Considering the placement on the number line will easily determine if one number is lesser than the other: The number that appears to the left on the number line is smaller.
1Step 1: Understand the Number Line
Before comparing the two numbers, understanding the number line is crucial. On a number line, numbers are arranged with lesser numbers on the left and greater numbers on the right. For instance, -2 is less than 3 because -2 is left to the 3 on the number line.
2Step 2: Compare the Two Numbers
Once understanding where numbers lie on the number line, apply this mindset to compare the two given numbers. If number A is on the left of number B on a number line then number A is lesser than B.