How do I break down (x-2)/((x+1)(x-1)^2) into partial fractions?

Firstly, let (x-2)/((x+1)(x-1)2) = A/(x+1) + B/(x-1)+C/(x-1)2, where A,B and C are to be calculated. 

Then, multiply both sides of the equation by (x+1)(x-1)2 which will leave an equation as follows;

x-2 = A(x-1)2 + B(x+1)(x-1) +C(x+1). Now let x=1.

-1 = 0A + 0B + 2C   this implies C = -1/2

Now let x = -1

-3 = A*(-2)2  + 0B + 0C  this implies -3=4*A which means A = -3/4

Now we have equation: x-2 = (-3/4)(x-1)2  + B(x-1)(x+1)  -(1/2)(x+1)

If we let x = 0 we get; 

-2 = -3/4 -B  - 1/2 giving; 

-2 = -5/4 - B          Adding 5/4 to both sides gives  -3/4 = - B from which we can see B = 3/4

now we have transformed our initial fraction into partial fractions; 

(x-2)/((x+1)(x-1)2) = -3/4(x+1) + 3/4(x-1)  -1/2(x-1)2 

To check your answers enter in an arbitrary x, both sides should come to the same number. 

DO
Answered by Daniel O. Maths tutor

4110 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Points A and B have coordinates (–2, 1) and (3, 4) respectively. Find the equation of the perpendicular bisector of AB and show that it may be written as 5x +3 y = 10.


The curve C has the equation: y=3x^2*(x+2)^6 Find dy/dx


Differentiate y = lnx + 4x^2 + 3e^4x with respect to x


How do you integrate (sinx)^2?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning