Comparing signed numbers relating to a real-world situation

In this lesson, we are given real world situations and we are first required to write signed numbers corresponding to those situations and then compare those signed numbers.

Let us learn from the solved examples on comparing signed numbers relating to real world situations

Compare the signed numbers relating to following real-world situations

Sixty-seven feet below sea level; Eighty-nine feet above sea level.

Solution

Step 1:

The signed number relating to Sixty-seven feet below sea level is -67

The signed number relating to Eighty-nine feet above sea level is +89

Step 2:

So, comparing the signed numbers -67 and 89, we use the inequality sign ‘<’

-67 < &plus;89

Compare the signed numbers relating to following real-world situations.

A temperature of thirty-two degrees above zero; A temperature of twenty-six degrees below zero.

Solution

Step 1:

The statements ‘A temperature of thirty-two degrees above zero’ and ‘A temperature of twenty-six degrees below zero.’ are represented by signed integers &plus;32 and −26

Step 2:

Comparing

&plus;32 > −26

Compare the signed numbers relating to following real-world situations

A gain of 18 pounds; A loss of 13 pounds

Solution

Step 1:

The signed number relating to a gain of 18 pounds is &plus;18

The signed number relating to a loss of 13 pounds is −13

Step 2:

So, comparing the signed numbers &plus;18 and −13, we use the inequality sign ‘>’

&plus;18 > −13