Question

Question 71

Using number line, how do you compare

(a) two negative integers?

(b) two positive integers?

(c) one positive and one negative integers?

Answer 1

We know that, on the number line, points to the right of zero are positive integers and points to the left to zero are negative integers.

As we move from left to right on the number line the numbers increase.

(a) If we compare two negative integers on the number line, then the number which is on the right of the other number, will be greater.

Also, for negative integers, the number which is closer to zero on the number line is greater.

e.g.

Here, we see that -2 is on the right of -3, so -2 is greater and -3 is smaller.

(b) If we compare two positive integers on the number line, then the integer which is on the right of the other number, will be greater.

For positive integers, the integer which is closer to zero on the number line will have less value.

e.g.

Here, we see that 3 is on the right of 1, so 3 is greater and 1 is smaller.

(c)If we compare one positive and one negative integer on the number line, then the positive integer is always on the right of the negative integer. Hence, a positive integer is always greater than a negative integer.

e.g

Here, we see that 2 is on the right of -1, so 2 is greater and -1 is smaller.