Final Value Theorem: Identify the correct statement for a stable system output y(t) with Laplace transform Y(s).

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: lim_{t→∞} y(t) = lim_{s→0} s Y(s), provided all poles of sY(s) are in the left half-plane and none on the imaginary axis

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The Final Value Theorem (FVT) links steady-state time behavior to a limit in the Laplace domain. It is widely used to compute steady-state error in control systems without performing inverse transforms.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Output y(t) has Laplace transform Y(s).
  • System stability assumptions are critical to FVT validity.
  • No poles on the imaginary axis (except possibly a simple pole at the origin in sY(s) is not allowed).


Concept / Approach:

The FVT states: if all poles of sY(s) lie strictly in the left half-plane (no poles at or to the right of jω axis), then lim_{t→∞} y(t) exists and equals lim_{s→0} s Y(s). The condition on sY(s) ensures convergence and rules out oscillatory or divergent steady-state behavior.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Start from Y(s) = L{y(t)}.Assume poles of sY(s) are strictly in Re{s} < 0.Apply FVT: y(∞) = lim_{s→0} s Y(s).Check that conditions exclude marginally stable/unstable modes (e.g., sinusoidal terms or ramps).


Verification / Alternative check:

For a unit-step input through a stable first-order system G(s) = K/(τ s + 1), Y(s) = G(s)/s. Then sY(s) = K/(τ s + 1) and lim_{s→0} sY(s) = K, matching the known steady-state y(∞) = K.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Using s → ∞ is related to initial values, not final values.
  • Replacing sY(s) by Y(s) neglects the crucial s multiplier.
  • Claims that ignore stability constraints are unsafe and can give incorrect results for oscillatory/unstable systems.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Applying FVT to systems with poles on the imaginary axis (e.g., pure integrators or undamped oscillators) leading to wrong or undefined limits.
  • Forgetting to include the input when forming Y(s) for closed-loop analysis.


Final Answer:

lim_{t→∞} y(t) = lim_{s→0} s Y(s), with all poles of sY(s) strictly in the left half-plane

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