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More digits, a larger whole number
For nonnegative whole numbers without leading zeros, the number with more digits is larger. So 100,000 is greater than 99,999, even though the digit 9 is greater than the digit 1.
Equal digit counts
Compare from the highest place. In 528,740 and 528,704, the first four digits match. At the tens place, 4 is greater than 0. So 528,740 is the greater number.
Ascending and descending order
Ascending order goes from least to greatest; descending order goes from greatest to least. Check every neighbouring pair, not just the first and last numbers.
Worked examples
528 704 < 528 740
A matching beginning does not make the numbers equal. The difference is 36.
499 999 + 1 = 500 000
Several digits change at the boundary. The next number is still only one more.
Try it yourself
Your turn
Type the missing word, number, or sign. Spaces in large numbers are allowed. Try first, then open the explanation.
Order 618,204; 681,024; 618,240; and 608,999 from least to greatest.
See an example answer
608,999 < 618,204 < 618,240 < 681,024. Compare the thousands first, then the remainder.
Check your knowledge
Choose one answer for each question. You can revise your answers and check again.
Answer key
- 810 290. The first two have 810 thousand; of those, 290 > 209.
- <. 100,000 has more digits.
- 430 108. 430 thousand is less than 431 thousand, and 108 < 180.
- 300 000. Add exactly one.
- 420 000, 240 000, 204 000. Each next number must be smaller.