difference between max(datecolumn) and max(to_date(datecolumn),'dd-mm-rrrr')

[PSoni]

hi all



when i use
select max(datecolumn) from atable ;

it gives

31-may-03

but when

select max(to_date(datecolumn),'dd-mm-rrrr) from atable ;

it gives
03-jul-03

second query is giving correct result.

please note that type datecolum is date

what is the difference ???


we r using win2000 and oracle 8.1.7



P.soni