Comparing Rational Numbers
Learn how to determine which rational number is greater or smaller using multiple methods!
1. Comparing on the Number Line
The Golden Rule
On a number line:
- Right is GREATER (bigger)
- Left is SMALLER (lesser)
This rule works for ALL rational numbers — positive, negative, fractions, and decimals!
Example: Compare −1/2 and −3/4
On the number line, −1/2 is to the RIGHT of −3/4
Therefore: −1/2 > −3/4
Interactive visualization — available in the full lesson
2. Basic Comparison Rules
Rule 1
+ > 0 > −
Any positive number is greater than zero, which is greater than any negative number.
Rule 2
+ > −
ANY positive rational number is ALWAYS greater than ANY negative rational number.
1/100 > −1000
Rule 3
0 is neutral
Zero is the boundary between positive and negative numbers.