What is a Less Than Sign?

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Grade Level:

Pre-School – Class 2

All domains without exception

Definition

What is it?

The less than sign is a mathematical symbol that looks like '<'. It is used to show that one number or quantity is smaller or 'less than' another number or quantity. Think of it as a hungry crocodile's mouth always opening towards the bigger number!

Simple Example

Quick Example

Imagine you have 5 laddoos and your friend has 7 laddoos. Since 5 is a smaller number than 7, we can write it using the less than sign as: 5 < 7. This means '5 is less than 7'.

Worked Example

Step-by-Step

Let's compare the runs scored by two cricket teams.

Step 1: Team A scored 120 runs.

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Step 2: Team B scored 150 runs.

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Step 3: We want to show that Team A's score is less than Team B's score.

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Step 4: Identify the smaller number. 120 is smaller than 150.

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Step 5: Place the less than sign '<' between the two numbers, with the open side facing the larger number.

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Answer: So, we write 120 < 150. This correctly shows that Team A scored less runs than Team B.

Why It Matters

Understanding the less than sign is crucial for comparing numbers, which is a basic skill in all of mathematics. It helps in algebra, understanding inequalities, and even in computer programming. Engineers use it to compare sensor readings, and stock market analysts use it to compare company performances.

Common Mistakes

MISTAKE: Writing 8 < 5 to mean 8 is greater than 5. | CORRECTION: The open side of the '<' sign always faces the larger number. So, to show 8 is greater than 5, you would use the 'greater than' sign: 8 > 5. If you want to use the less than sign, you'd write 5 < 8.

MISTAKE: Confusing the less than sign '<' with the greater than sign '>'. | CORRECTION: A simple trick is to remember that the 'L' in 'Less Than' looks a bit like the less than sign if you rotate it (L -> <). Or, imagine the symbol as a hungry alligator, its mouth always open towards the bigger meal (the larger number).

MISTAKE: Using the less than sign when numbers are equal, e.g., 6 < 6. | CORRECTION: The less than sign is only for when one number is strictly smaller. If numbers are equal, we use the equals sign: 6 = 6. If one is smaller or equal, we use '<=' (less than or equal to).

Practice Questions

Try It Yourself

QUESTION: Which sign should go in the blank: 15 ___ 20? | ANSWER: 15 < 20

QUESTION: Your mobile data plan gives you 2 GB per day. Your friend's plan gives 3 GB per day. Write a comparison using the less than sign. | ANSWER: 2 GB < 3 GB

QUESTION: A small auto-rickshaw fare from your home to the market is Rs. 40. A larger auto-rickshaw might charge Rs. 50 for the same distance. If you want to show that the small auto fare is less than the larger auto fare, how would you write it? | ANSWER: Rs. 40 < Rs. 50

MCQ

Quick Quiz

Which statement correctly uses the less than sign?

100 > 90

50 = 50

30 < 25

75 < 80

The Correct Answer Is:

Option D is correct because 75 is indeed a smaller number than 80. Options A and B use other comparison signs correctly, while Option C incorrectly states that 30 is less than 25.

Real World Connection

In the Real World

When you buy groceries online from apps like Zepto or Blinkit, the app might show you 'minimum order value' for free delivery. If your cart total is Rs. 150, and the minimum is Rs. 200, the system uses a 'less than' check (150 < 200) to know that you haven't reached the free delivery threshold yet.

Key Vocabulary

Key Terms

LESS THAN: A mathematical term meaning smaller in quantity or value. | SYMBOL: A mark or character used to represent something. | COMPARE: To examine two or more things to note similarities and differences. | INEQUALITY: A mathematical statement that shows two values are not equal, using signs like < or >.

What's Next

What to Learn Next

Now that you understand the less than sign, you should learn about the 'greater than sign' (>) next. It's the opposite of the less than sign and will help you compare numbers even more effectively! Keep practicing!