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Comparing 3-digit numbers

Comparing 3-digit numbers

Comparing 3-digit numbers involves determining which of two numbers is greater, less, or equal by examining their digits. Here are the key concepts:

  1. Place Value: Each digit in a 3-digit number has a specific place value—hundreds, tens, and units. The leftmost digit (hundreds) holds the highest value.

  2. Step-by-Step Comparison:

    • Hundreds Place: Start by comparing the hundreds digits. The number with the higher hundreds digit is greater.
    • Tens Place: If the hundreds digits are the same, compare the tens digits next.
    • Units Place: If both hundreds and tens digits are the same, compare the units digits to determine which number is greater or if they are equal.
  3. Equal Numbers: If all corresponding digits are the same, the numbers are equal.

By following these steps, you can easily compare any two 3-digit numbers.

Part 1: Comparing whole numbers

Sal compares 394 and 397.

When studying "Comparing Whole Numbers," focus on the following key points:

  1. Understanding Whole Numbers: Familiarize yourself with whole numbers, which include 0 and all positive integers (1, 2, 3, ...).

  2. Number Line: Use a number line to visualize the order of whole numbers. Numbers increase in value as you move to the right.

  3. Greater Than and Less Than: Understand the symbols:

    • ">" (greater than)
    • "<" (less than)
    • "=" (equal to)
  4. Comparing Two Numbers: To compare two whole numbers, determine which number is larger or if they are equal.

  5. Place Value: Recognize the significance of place value in determining which number is greater, especially for multi-digit numbers (e.g., 81 vs. 18).

  6. Using Strategies: Employ strategies like:

    • Identifying the number of digits (more digits usually means a larger number).
    • Comparing digit by digit from left to right for multi-digit numbers.
  7. Real-life Applications: Understand how comparing whole numbers applies to real-life contexts, such as comparing populations, scores, or measurements.

By mastering these points, you'll have a solid foundation for comparing whole numbers effectively.