Who invented less than symbol

The terminology varies. Nowadays, they use the term "equation" in both cases, the former is being said to be a constant equation.

The reason for the later usage I think is that in algebra a constant expression may contain variable-like symbols to denote generic numbers. This usage is similar to the statement of physical laws. This is neither a statement, nor a request to solve an equation. This is a convenience definition. After it is given, we may talk of the powers of function f, its derivative f', or of its iterates f f x , f f f x , Some mathematical objects can be compared, e.

Other mathematical objects, complex numbers for one, cannot be compared if the operation of comparison is expected to possess certain properties. To remember which is which, observe that both symbols have one pointed side where there is just one end, and one split side with 2 ends.

The pointed end with a single endpoint points to the smaller of the two expressions. Whichever number is larger, the alligator mouth is opened towards that number. If you were given 5 and 8 and were told to show which number is greater than or less than, the alligator would open his mouth towards the 8.

This shows that 5 is less than 8. The same would work if you were given 10 and 4. The alligator mouth would open towards the 10, showing that the 10 is greater than 4. Jay Willis joined Mometrix as Vice President of Sales in , and has developed several key strategic relationships that have enhanced the distribution of Mometrix products.

With nearly 20 years of sales experience in the publishing industry, his dedication to providing the highest quality experience for customers, coupled with his sales and marketing expertise, has resulted in significant growth of the Institutional Sales division. Learn more View all posts by Jay Willis. Skip to content.