The starting current of a motor can be how much greater than the normal full load current?

The starting current of a motor can be significantly higher than its normal full load current due to the initial inrush of electricity required to overcome the inertia of the motor and initiate its operation. When a motor is started, it momentarily draws a large amount of current until it reaches its operating speed.

In this case, stating that the starting current can be 5 to 6 times the normal full load current accurately reflects this phenomenon for certain types of motors, particularly larger induction motors. These motors require a substantial increase in current to initiate movement, as they need to build up the necessary torque to begin rotating.

Other options propose lower multipliers compared to the most accurate reflection of the starting current characteristics. While smaller motors or specific types of designs might start with a lower inrush current, the higher range of 5 to 6 times is more common in larger or more demanding applications, which is why this choice is recognized as correct. Understanding this concept is crucial for designing motor control circuits and ensuring that the electrical infrastructure supports the necessary load during motor startup.