Low-Order Approximation of System

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around finding a low-order approximation for a given transfer function. Key points include the neglect of the pole at s=-3 and the importance of considering DC gain when simplifying the function. There is confusion regarding the DC gain from the term (2s+5), specifically why it is 5/2 instead of 5 when evaluating at s=0. The original poster's approach involves simplifying the function by dividing by 2 and canceling terms, leading to a proposed low-order approximation. Ultimately, the poster concludes that their MATLAB plot suggests the provided solution is incorrect.
sandy.bridge
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Homework Statement


I have a pretty simple question. I was going over an older exam when I encountered something that did not quite make sense to me.

If \frac{(2s+5)(-s+0.5)}{(s+3)(s^2+0.1s+0.01)},

find a low order approximation for the system.

I understand that the pole at s=-3 can be neglected, and that we can drop the terms containing the zeros. I also know that we need to consider the DC gain of these portions when dropping those terms for low-order approximation. What I do not understand, is how the DC gain from (2s+5) term is 5/2, rather than merely 5. Wouldn't you simply plug in a zero for s?
 
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My approach is as follows:
Divide numerator and denominator by "2". Thus, in the numerator we have (s+2.5). Now - as a first approximation, the zero at "-2.5" and the pole at "-3" cancel each other.
This leads to a "low-order approximation" of the given function. Why do you think, that you can "neglect" the pole at "-3" ?
 
The behaviour of the system will primarily be governed by the poles that are close the s-axis (relative to the pole at s=-3). The solution reduces the equation to 5/(12(s^2+0.1s+0.01)), but I was certain that it should be 5/(6(s^2+0.1s+0.01)).

EDIT* I plotted it in MATLAB and determined that their solution is wrong. Thanks!
 
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