Step by step
The question
Question: compare −1/2 and 0.1.
−12 and 0.1
1 Write it as a decimal
To compare, we write every number the same way: as a decimal.
A decimal is tenths, hundredths or thousandths.
2 times 5 is 10.
So we multiply the top and the bottom by 5.
5 tenths is 0.5.
The minus sign stays in front: −0.5.
= −12 = −1 × 52 × 5 = −510 = −0.5
2 Compare
Negative numbers are smaller than every positive number.
So they come first.
= −0.5 < 0.1
3 Write the answer
Now with the numbers as they were given: −1/2 < 0.1.
−1/2 is less than 0.1.
= −12 < 0.1
4 Check
Let's check on a number line.
Smaller numbers are further to the left.
We put a dot for each number.
From left to right: −1/2, 0.1.
The same order.
So the answer is right!
left to right: same order
Let's look back.
First: write it as a decimal.
Then: compare.
Then: write the answer.
Last: check.
Answer
= −12 < 0.1