lt
Represents the less-than relation in mathematical expressions, providing a clear and semantically correct alternative to the < symbol.
Overview
Serves as a mathematical operator for comparing quantities, particularly useful in formal mathematical writing and computer science contexts.
- Preferred over the plain < character in LaTeX for proper spacing and mathematical semantics
- Common in logical expressions, inequalities, and algorithmic descriptions
- Essential for writing mathematical proofs and formal definitions
- Particularly valuable when describing ordered sets, numerical ranges, and computational constraints
Examples
Comparing two variables in a mathematical inequality
x \lt y
Defining a set using the less than relation
S = \{x \in \mathbb{R} : x \lt 5\}
Expressing a limit condition
\lim_{x \to 0^{+}} \frac{1}{x}, \quad x \lt 1