1. **State the problem:** Compare the two whole numbers 478 and 487 and select the correct comparison symbol (<, >, =). 2. **Recall the rule for comparing whole numbers:** - If the first number is smaller than the second, use the symbol $<$. - If the first number is larger than the second, use the symbol $>$. - If both numbers are equal, use the symbol $=$. 3. **Compare the numbers digit by digit:** - Hundreds place: 4 vs 4 (equal) - Tens place: 7 vs 8 (7 is less than 8) Since 7 is less than 8 in the tens place, 478 is less than 487. 4. **Write the comparison:** $$478 < 487$$ **Final answer:** The correct symbol to go in the box is $<$.