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Integers are a set of numbers composed of whole numbers and their opposites. This includes positive numbers (1, 2, 3, ...), zero (0), and negative numbers (-1, -2, -3, ...). Whole numbers, on their own, are the set containing zero and all the positive numbers without fractions or decimals (0, 1, 2, 3, ...).

When we talk about integers, it’s important to remember that there are no fractional or decimal parts. An integer can be illustrated simply as any number you’d find on a basic number line without any sections in between them.

For example, 4 is an integer, but 3.5 is not because it contains a fractional part. Understanding this distinction helps make tasks like comparing numbers easier and clearer.

Number comparison is a fundamental math concept where we determine the relative size or value of numbers. In simple terms, we often ask if one number is less than, greater than, or equal to another number. This is essential in deciding which numbers fit specific criteria, like finding a number greater than a particular value.

There are a few symbols used in number comparison:

• ‘<’ means less than
• ‘>’ means greater than
• ‘=’ means equal to

For example, if we compare 4 and 3.5, we will use the ‘greater than’ symbol because 4 is larger. Writing this comparison, we get:
4 > 3.5

When you compare numbers, ensure you understand their types. Whole numbers (integers) and decimals follow the same rules, but the way you determine their order is slightly different because of the decimal points.

The concept of 'greater than' is used to compare two numbers and decide which one is larger. The symbol for 'greater than' is ‘>’. Understanding and using this symbol correctly is crucial in math.

For example, in the given exercise, you needed to find a whole number greater than 3.5. Here’s how to approach it:

• Identify the number in question – 3.5
• List whole numbers starting from 3 – 3, 4, 5, etc.
• Skip any numbers equal to or less than 3.5
• Find the smallest number greater than 3.5

Following this, we see that 4 is the smallest whole number greater than 3.5. Writing it down, we can say:
4 > 3.5
Always remember, when comparing numbers to see which is greater, focus on their value on a number line. The further right on the line, the greater the number.