“A less than or greater than symbol is used in Mathematics and Physics to show the inequality between two quantities. It is well-known that the less than symbol is used when we want to show that one value or quantity is lesser than the other value or quantity. LaTeX is a fantastic document processor for creating excellent research papers quickly.”
In LaTeX, the less than symbol is indicated by <. However, many users may sometimes get confused while using this symbol. If you also feel the same, please read this tutorial, as we will explain how to write and use less than symbols in LaTeX.
How to Write and Use Less Than Symbol in LaTeX
Let’s start with the basic example of using a less than symbol in LaTeX. Suppose there are two quantities, A and B, where B is less than A, so here is how you can represent it in the document processor:
\begin{document}
In the current scenario, quantity B is less than A, so: $ B < A $
\end{document}
Output
If you don’t follow the correct source code, you might end up getting the following output after compiling:
Hence, please ensure to use the less than symbol with $. Otherwise, the document processor will change the < symbol into ¡.
Similarly, you can use the less than or equal to(≤) symbol, but it requires \leq source code. For example, B is less than A, but C is less than or equal to C:
\begin{document}
Quantity B is less than A, but C is less than equal to B:
$$B < A$$
$$C \leq B$$
\end{document}
Output
Wrapping Up
In Mathematics and Physics, the less than symbol is essential in defining the inequality between two quantities. A reader may become confused if you don’t use this symbol correctly. That’s why we have written this tutorial to give you a brief on the simple way to write and use a less than symbol in LaTeX. If you only use the < symbol, the document processor will show a different result, so please follow the above information carefully. You can find out more about LaTeX by visiting our official website. We have written hundreds of LaTeX-related tips and tutorials.
