Previous Year Question
Correct answer: C
Explanation
A root locus has one branch for each open-loop pole. The number of branches that terminate at infinity equals the number of poles minus the number of finite zeros. Here there are 3 poles and 1 zero, so 2 branches go to infinity.
Formula
Step-by-step solution

Correct Answer
C — 2
Concept and Reasoning
A root locus has one branch for each open-loop pole. The number of branches that terminate at infinity equals the number of poles minus the number of finite zeros. Here there are 3 poles and 1 zero, so 2 branches go to infinity.
Calculation / Key Relation
P=3
Z=1
Branches to infinity=P−Z=2
Exam Takeaway
Count poles and finite zeros before drawing the locus.
Common Mistake
Do not count the finite zero as an asymptote endpoint at infinity.
Common mistake
Do not count the finite zero as an asymptote endpoint at infinity.
Exam tip
Count poles and finite zeros before drawing the locus.
Quick method
Count poles and finite zeros before drawing the locus.