Question

Use \(<\) or \(>\) to write a true statement. $$0 ?-16$$

Short answer

#Answer# >

Step-by-step solution

Compare the given numbers

In this step, we will compare the given numbers, 0 and -16. Since 0 is greater than -16, we can determine that the correct inequality symbol to use is ">". So, the true statement for the given numbers is: $$0 > -16$$

Key concepts

Comparing Numbers

When we talk about comparing numbers, we are trying to understand which of the two values is larger, smaller, or if they are equal. Comparing numbers is essential in mathematics and helps us understand relationships between different values. Here’s how you can approach comparing numbers in a simple way:

• First, look at the numbers and see if they are whole numbers, fractions, or decimals.
• Next, consider the value each number represents. Numbers further to the right on the number line are greater than those to the left.
• Determine the relationship between the numbers. Are they equal, or is one larger or smaller?

For example, when comparing 0 and -16, we are deciding which is larger. Since 0 is to the right of -16 on the number line, 0 is greater than -16. Hence, **0 > -16**.

Negative Numbers

Negative numbers are values less than zero and are usually written with a minus sign (-). They represent quantities that are below a defined zero point on the number line. Understanding negative numbers is crucial because they show up frequently in math, especially when dealing with debts, temperatures below freezing, or other situations that involve quantities below a neutral balance.

• Negative numbers are always to the left of zero on the number line.
• The further left a negative number is on the number line, the smaller its value. For example, -16 is smaller than -3 because -16 is further left on the number line.
• When comparing positive and negative numbers, positive numbers are always larger than negative ones.

In the exercise, since 0 is a positive number and -16 is negative, 0 is the larger number and hence, **0 > -16**.

Greater Than Symbol

The greater than symbol (>) is used in math to indicate that one number is larger than another. Understanding how to use this symbol helps you write and interpret mathematical statements correctly. Using the greater than symbol involves a few simple steps:

• Start by identifying the two numbers or expressions you are comparing.
• The number that is greater should be on the left side of the symbol.
• The pointy side of the symbol faces toward the smaller number.

In the example of **0 > -16**, the pointy end of the greater than symbol faces -16, showing that 0 is indeed greater. This is a visual way to understand which number is larger, making it easy to see relationships between numbers in a straightforward way.