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In order to compare whole numbers like 14 and 13, you need to understand what whole numbers are. Whole numbers are the set of numbers that start from 0 and go up without end: 0, 1, 2, 3, and so on. Compared to other kinds of numbers like fractions or decimals, whole numbers are easy to handle because they are simple counts.

When comparing two whole numbers, look at their values. The higher the value, the greater the number. For example, if you have 14 apples and 13 apples, it’s clear that 14 apples are more than 13. You just compare them by their place in the counting sequence.

Keep in mind that the process of comparing works the same no matter how large the numbers get. So, whether you are looking at 14 and 13, or 142 and 139, you use the same method - by seeing which one comes later in the counting sequence.

Inequality symbols are used to show the relationship between two values. The main inequality symbols you need to know are:

• '>' for 'greater than'
• '<' for 'less than'

The symbol '>' is used when the number on the left is larger than the number on the right. For example, 14 > 13 tells us that 14 is greater than 13.

The symbol '<' is used when the number on the left is smaller than the number on the right. For example, 8 < 10 means that 8 is less than 10.

Understanding these symbols is important for solving various kinds of math problems. They help us clearly express how two numbers compare, and they are used frequently in both simple arithmetic and more complex math topics.

The concepts of 'greater than' and 'less than' are fundamental in understanding inequalities.

'Greater than' means that one number is larger than another. For example, in the inequality 14 > 13, 14 is greater than 13. This can be visualized easily with objects. If you line up 14 dots next to 13 dots, you'll see the extra dot on the side of the 14-dot line.

'Less than' means that one number is smaller than another. For instance, if you have 5 < 9, it means 5 is less than 9. You would see fewer dots on the side of the 5-dot line when compared.

Think of these symbols like arrows pointing toward the smaller number. The open side of the '>' or '<' symbol always points towards the larger number, while the sharp point indicates the smaller number.

Remember, these concepts are very simple but they form the basis of more complex mathematical operations and understanding them now will make learning more advanced topics easier.