In a rectangle, the diagonals are congruent and bisect each other.
VW = WS
2x + y = 36
Also, opposite sides are congruent.
RS = VT
x - y = 9
Use the two equations as a system of equations, and solve it to find x and y.
2x + y = 36
x - y = 9
Add the equations to eliminate y.
3x = 45
x = 15
Now substitute x = 15 into the first equation to solve for y.
2x + y = 36
2(15) + y = 36
30 + y = 36
y = 6
Answer: x = 15; y = 6