Finite-time stability and instability of stochastic nonlinear systems

This paper presents a new definition of finite-time stability for stochastic nonlinear systems. This definition involves stability in probability and finite-time attractiveness in probability. An important Lyapunov theorem on finite-time stability for stochastic nonlinear systems is established. A theorem extending the stochastic Lyapunov theorem is also proved. Moreover, an example and a lemma are presented to illustrate the scope of extension. A useful inequality, extended from Bihari's inequality, is derived, which plays an important role in showing the Lyapunov theorem. Finally, a Lyapunov theorem on finite-time instability is proved, which states that almost surely globally asymptotical stability is not equivalent to finite-time stability for some stochastic systems. Two simulation examples are given to illustrate the theoretical analysis. Crown Copyright (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.