Mathematical Symbols Flashcards

All 6 cards in this deck

What does the symbol $\neq$ mean?

Is not equal to.
e.g. $3 + 4 \neq 8$

What does the symbol $\leq$ mean?

Is less than or equal to.
e.g. $x \leq 5$ means $x$ can be 5 or anything smaller.

What does the symbol $\geq$ mean?

Is greater than or equal to.
e.g. $x \geq 2$ means $x$ can be 2 or anything larger.

In an inequality such as $a < b$, which number does the pointed (narrow) end of the symbol face?

The smaller number.
e.g. in $3 < 7$ the point faces the 3.

True or false? $x < 5$ means $x$ could be equal to 5.

False. $x < 5$ means $x$ is strictly less than 5; $x \leq 5$ allows $x = 5$.

True or false? $-2 > -9$.

True. $-2$ is further right on the number line, so it is greater.