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Subject – Mathematics

Chapter 6 – DECIMALS

Sub-topic 4 : COMPARING AND ORDERING OF DECIMALS

In COMPARING DECIMALS, we will learn how to compare the two decimal numbers and also
arranging the decimals in ascending or descending order.

One decimal number is either greater than or less than or equal to the other decimal number.

The following steps will help us to compare the decimal numbers:

Step I: Obtain the decimal numbers.

Step II: Compare the whole parts of the numbers. The whole number part with greater number will be
greater. If the whole number parts are equal, then go to next step.

Step III: Compare the last left digits of the decimal parts of two numbers with the greater left digit at
the last will be greater. If the left digits at the last of decimal parts are equal, then compare the next
digits and so on.

Note: Now we will follow the steps and try to solve the various types of questions on comparing
decimals accordingly. While comparing the two decimal numbers, convert each of the decimal
numbers into like decimals and then solve.

Three different types of questions based on comparing decimals:

A. First compare the whole number part of the decimal number. Decimal with the greater whole
number is greater.

1. Compare 23.14 and 8.67

Solution:

In 23.14 the whole number part is 23 and in 8.67 the whole number part is 8.

But 23 > 8

Therefore, 23.14 > 8.67

B. If the whole number part is the same, then compare the digit at the tenths place. The decimal with
the greater tenths digit is greater.

2. Compare 53.47 and 53.81.

Solution:

In 53.47 and 53.81, the whole number part is the same, i.e., 53.