Regarding capacitor use in a single-phase motor circuit, the capacitor is connected how with the start winding?

• A. In series
• B. In parallel
• C. Across supply
• D. Across run winding

Answer: (A)

The starting action of a single‑phase motor relies on creating a phase difference between the run winding and the start winding. Placing the capacitor in series with the start winding shifts the current in the start winding relative to the run winding. That phase-shifted current, when both windings are energized, produces a rotating magnetic field and the necessary starting torque. In typical capacitor-start motors, the start winding and capacitor are in series and connected to the supply (often with a switch that disconnects the capacitor after startup). If the capacitor were placed in parallel, across the supply, or across the run winding, the needed phase shift wouldn’t be created, and starting torque would be lost or the motor could be damaged.