What effect does the capacitor have on the electric current in a capacitor start motor?

A capacitor start motor is designed to improve starting torque in single-phase induction motors by creating a phase shift in the electric current. When the motor is started, the capacitor introduces a time delay between the current flowing through the start winding and the current flowing through the run winding. This delay results in a phase difference that produces a rotating magnetic field, which is essential for efficient starting and smooth operation.

The increased phase shift ensures that the start winding produces effective torque to start the motor. Once the motor reaches a certain speed, a centrifugal switch typically disconnects the capacitor, allowing the motor to operate normally with only the run winding. This phase shift is crucial for enabling the motor to start under load and helps prevent issues like stalling.

While minimizing current draw or reducing voltage can be related to other functionalities in electrical systems, they do not directly relate to the primary function of the capacitor in this specific application. The elimination of electrical noise is also not a primary role of the capacitor in capacitor start motors. The key operation is to enhance the phase shift to facilitate effective starting of the motor.