Answer:
RS = 8
Step-by-step explanation:
Given:
Secant QU = internal secant segment PU + external secant segment PQ = 7 + 9 = 16
Secant QS = internal secant segment RS + external secant segment RQ = (3x - 5) + 8
To find the measure of RS, we need to find the value of x.
Thus, recall the "Two Secant Theorem"
According to the theorem,
(RS + RQ)*RQ = (PU + PQ)*PQ
Thus,
[tex] (3x - 5 + 8)*8 = (7 + 9)*9 [/tex]
[tex] (3x + 3)*8 = (16)*9 [/tex]
[tex] 24x + 24 = 144 [/tex]
Subtract 24 from both sides
[tex] 24x + 24 - 24 = 144 - 24 [/tex]
[tex] 24x = 120 [/tex]
Divide both sides by 24
[tex] \frac{24x}{24} = \frac{120}{24} [/tex]
[tex] x = 5 [/tex]
Plug in the value of x into (3x - 5) to find the measure of RS
RS = 3(5) - 5 = 15 - 7
RS = 8
