To simplify the expression \( 7^1 \times 7^2 \), you can use the product rule of exponents, which states that when you multiply two exponents with the same base, you add their exponents.
So:
\[ 7^1 \times 7^2 = 7^{1+2} = 7^3 \]
Therefore, the simplified expression is \( 7^3 \).