Is 1/5 Bigger Than 3/7?

No, \(\frac{1}{5}\) < \(\frac{3}{7}\)

\(\frac{1}{5}\)
20%
\(\frac{3}{7}\)
42.8571%

Method 1: Common Denominators

To compare these fractions, we need a common denominator. The denominators are 5 and 7, and the least common denominator (LCD) is 35.

Method 2: Cross Multiplication

A quicker way to compare fractions is to cross-multiply. Multiply each numerator by the other fraction's denominator:

Method 3: Decimal Comparison

Convert each fraction to a decimal by dividing the numerator by the denominator:

\(\frac{1}{5}\) as a decimal 0.2
\(\frac{3}{7}\) as a decimal 0.428571
Difference 0.228571

Since 0.2 is less than 0.428571, we confirm that \(\frac{1}{5} < \frac{3}{7}\). In percentage terms, \(\frac{1}{5}\) is 20% and \(\frac{3}{7}\) is 42.8571%, a difference of 22.8571 percentage points.

Why Does This Work?

These fractions have different numerators and different denominators, so we can't compare them directly. By converting to a common denominator of 35, we're cutting both quantities into equal-sized pieces. Then 7 pieces vs 15 pieces is a straightforward comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is bigger: 1/5 or 3/7?

\(\frac{3}{7}\) is bigger. As a decimal, \(\frac{3}{7}\) = 0.428571 while \(\frac{1}{5}\) = 0.2.

What is the difference between 1/5 and 3/7?

The difference is \(\frac{8}{35}\), which equals 0.228571 in decimal form (22.8571 percentage points).

How do you compare 1/5 and 3/7?

You can use three methods: find a common denominator and compare numerators, cross-multiply and compare the products, or convert both fractions to decimals. All three methods confirm that \(\frac{3}{7}\) \(>\) \(\frac{1}{5}\).