Sinusoidal response magnitude: for a pure transportation lag (dead time) element, identify the amplitude ratio (magnitude) of the frequency response.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Transportation lag

Explanation:

Introduction / Context:A transportation lag (dead time) element delays a signal by a fixed time L without changing its shape. In the frequency domain, dead time contributes phase lag that increases with frequency, but it does not attenuate amplitude in the ideal mathematical model.Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Ideal dead time with transfer function e^(−sL).
  • Sinusoidal steady-state input of frequency ω.
  • No additional dynamics in series.

Concept / Approach:The frequency response of e^(−sL) evaluated at s = jω is e^(−jωL) whose magnitude is |e^(−jωL)| = 1 and whose phase is −ωL radians. Thus, the amplitude ratio (output amplitude / input amplitude) is unity for all frequencies, while the phase lag grows linearly with frequency.Step-by-Step Solution:

Start with G(jω) = e^(−jωL).Compute magnitude: |G(jω)| = 1.Compute phase: ∠G(jω) = −ωL.Conclude amplitude ratio is 1 for a pure dead time.

Verification / Alternative check:Bode plots for dead time show a flat 0 dB magnitude line (AR = 1) and a phase that decreases linearly with frequency.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

First/second order systems: their magnitudes vary with frequency (roll-off or resonance); not constant 1.None of these: incorrect because transportation lag matches the property.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing practical dead time (with filters and measurement noise) with the ideal mathematical element; in practice, some attenuation can appear, but in theory AR = 1.

Final Answer:Transportation lag

More Questions from Process Control and Instrumentation

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion