Is 1/6 Bigger Than 1/7?

Yes, \(\frac{1}{6}\) > \(\frac{1}{7}\)

\(\frac{1}{6}\)
16.6667%
\(\frac{1}{7}\)
14.2857%

Method 1: Common Denominators

To compare these fractions, we need a common denominator. The denominators are 6 and 7, and the least common denominator (LCD) is 42.

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:

\(\frac{1}{6}\) as a decimal 0.166667
\(\frac{1}{7}\) as a decimal 0.142857
Difference 0.02381

Since 0.166667 is greater than 0.142857, we confirm that \(\frac{1}{6} > \frac{1}{7}\). In percentage terms, \(\frac{1}{6}\) is 16.6667% and \(\frac{1}{7}\) is 14.2857%, a difference of 2.381 percentage points.

Why Does This Work?

When two fractions have the same numerator, you have the same number of pieces — but the pieces are different sizes. A smaller denominator means each piece is larger. Since 7ths are larger pieces than 6ths, \(\frac{1}{6}\) is the bigger fraction even though both have 1 in the numerator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is bigger: 1/6 or 1/7?

\(\frac{1}{6}\) is bigger. As a decimal, \(\frac{1}{6}\) = 0.166667 while \(\frac{1}{7}\) = 0.142857.

What is the difference between 1/6 and 1/7?

The difference is \(\frac{1}{42}\), which equals 0.02381 in decimal form (2.381 percentage points).

How do you compare 1/6 and 1/7?

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 \(\frac{1}{6}\) \(>\) \(\frac{1}{7}\).