Question

Which number in each of the following pairs is larger?

(i) 3, −4
(ii) −12, −8
(iii) 0, 7
(iv) 12, −18

Answer 1

(i) Every positive integer is greater than every negative integer; therefore, 3 > −4.
(ii) Because −12 is to the left of −8 on a number line, −8 > −12.
(iii) Every positive integer is greater than zero; therefore, 7 > 0.
(iv) Every positive integer is greater than every negative integer; therefore, 12 > −18.