Ordering Numbers Math Example 2

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 2

medium
Order from greatest to least: −12-\frac{1}{2}, −0.6-0.6, 00, −13-\frac{1}{3}.

Solution

  1. 1
    Convert to decimals: −12=−0.5-\frac{1}{2} = -0.5, −0.6=−0.6-0.6 = -0.6, 0=00 = 0, −13≈−0.333-\frac{1}{3} \approx -0.333.
  2. 2
    Order least to greatest: −0.6<−0.5<−0.333<0-0.6 < -0.5 < -0.333 < 0.
  3. 3
    Reverse for greatest to least: 0>−13>−12>−0.60 > -\frac{1}{3} > -\frac{1}{2} > -0.6.

Answer

0>−13>−12>−0.60 > -\frac{1}{3} > -\frac{1}{2} > -0.6
Among negative numbers, the one closest to zero is the greatest. Converting to decimals makes comparison straightforward. Reversing the least-to-greatest order gives greatest-to-least.

About Ordering Numbers

Ordering numbers is the process of arranging numbers in sequence from smallest to largest (ascending order) or largest to smallest (descending order). To order numbers, compare them using place value, common denominators, or convert to the same form (e.g. all decimals).

Learn more about Ordering Numbers →

More Ordering Numbers Examples

Example 1 easy

Arrange from least to greatest: [formula], [formula], [formula], [formula].

Example 3 medium

Order from least to greatest: [formula], [formula], [formula], [formula].

Example 4 easy

Write three integers in order such that each is exactly 5 less than the previous.

Example 5 medium

Insert a rational number between [formula] and [formula].

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