Question

points x and y lie on wz as shown below. the length of wz is 36 inches; wy is 16 inches long; and xz is 28 inches long. how many inches long, if it can be determined is xy?
f. 4
g. 8
h. 12
j. 16
k. cannot be determined from the given information

Explanation:

Step1: Use the segment - addition formula

We know that \(WZ = WY+YZ\) and \(WZ = WX + XZ\). Also, \(WY=WX + XY\).
Since \(WZ = 36\) inches and \(XZ = 28\) inches, then \(WX=WZ - XZ\). So \(WX=36 - 28=8\) inches.

Step2: Use the relationship \(WY = WX+XY\)

Given \(WY = 16\) inches and \(WX = 8\) inches. Substitute into the formula \(XY=WY - WX\).
So \(XY = 16-8 = 8\) inches.

Answer:

G. 8