SOLUTION: In order for the identity {{{1/(x+1)+a/(x-1)=(-2)/(x^2-1)}}} to hold for all x, a must equal ?

Question 18802: In order for the identity to hold for all x, a must equal ?
Answer by Earlsdon(6294) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Here's one approach:
Add the fractions on the left side.
Simplify the left side.
Multiply both sides by (x^2-1)
Subtract (x-1) from both sides.
Simplify the right side.
Finally, divide both sides by (x+1)

Answer: a must = -1
Check: Substitute a = -1
Add the fractions on the left side.
Simplify the left side.

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