Which of the following is the smaller fraction? - $\frac{5}{9} \mathrm{and} \frac{5}{7}$

The given fractions are $\frac{5}{9} \mathrm{and} \frac{5}{7}$.

If the numerators for the two fractions are the same, then the fraction with a smaller denominator is the greater fraction.

Here, 9 > 7 .

Thus, $\frac{5}{9}<\frac{5}{7}$. 

Hence, $\frac{5}{9}$ is the smallest fraction.