Find the value of x for which (x² – 1)/(x + 1) = 0

Explanation

Step 1: Recall when fraction equals zero
A fraction equals 0 only when:
– Numerator = 0
– Denominator ≠ 0

Step 2: Factor numerator
x² – 1 = (x + 1)(x – 1)

Step 3: Set numerator equal to zero
(x + 1)(x – 1) = 0
x = -1 or x = 1

Step 4: Check denominator restrictions
Denominator: x + 1
When x = -1: x + 1 = 0 (undefined!)
When x = 1: x + 1 = 2 ≠ 0 (valid)

Step 5: Conclusion
x = -1 makes both numerator and denominator zero (undefined)
Only x = 1 is valid