To compare the numbers [tex]\(0.42\)[/tex] and [tex]\(0.48\)[/tex], we need to examine their values.
1. Compare the whole number part: Both numbers [tex]\(0.42\)[/tex] and [tex]\(0.48\)[/tex] have the same whole number part, which is 0.
2. Compare the decimal part digit by digit:
- First decimal place: [tex]\(4\)[/tex] in [tex]\(0.42\)[/tex] and [tex]\(4\)[/tex] in [tex]\(0.48\)[/tex]. Since these digits are equal, we move to the next decimal place.
- Second decimal place: [tex]\(2\)[/tex] in [tex]\(0.42\)[/tex] and [tex]\(8\)[/tex] in [tex]\(0.48\)[/tex].
Since 2 is less than 8, we conclude that [tex]\(0.42\)[/tex] is less than [tex]\(0.48\)[/tex].
Therefore, inserting the appropriate symbol between the numbers, we get:
[tex]\[
0.42 < 0.48
\][/tex]
