Comparing Decimal Fractions
Table of Contents
- Comparing Decimal Fractions
- Summary
- What’s Next?
In the previous segment, we learnt about Like, Unlike, and Equivalent decimal fractions.
In this segment, we will learn how to compare decimal fractions.
How do we compare decimal fractions?
Step 1: Convert unlike fractions to like fractions
Before comparing any two decimal fractions, convert the unlike fractions to like fractions.
Step 2: Compare the integral part and the decimal part of the decimal fractions
- Comparing integral parts
The decimal fractions will either have the same integral parts or different integral parts. If the integral parts are different, the decimal fraction which has the greater integral part is greater and there is no need to compare the decimal part.
If the integral parts are the same, then the next step is to compare the decimal parts.
Comparing the decimal parts
Starting with the digit in the tenths place, the decimal fraction which has a bigger number in this place has the greater value. If the digits in the tenths place are the same, move to the digit in the hundredths place, and so on.
For example,
Q. Compare 2.57 and 4.62. Solution:
2.57 and 4.62 have the same number of digits after the decimal, hence they are like fractions. Comparing their integral parts, 2 is less than 4.
Therefore, 2.57 ＜ 4.62.
Q. 2.5 and 2.502
For more visit Expanded Form with Decimals – Definition, Applications and Examples
