Which type of single-phase motor has high electrical current draw when starting and relatively low starting torque?

The correct choice refers to a split-phase motor, which is a type of single-phase induction motor that operates with different windings for starting and running. When starting, this motor draws a significant electrical current due to its design. The current is high because the motor must overcome inertia and get the rotor moving. However, the starting torque produced by a split-phase motor is relatively low compared to other motor types.

This low starting torque is a characteristic inherent to split-phase motors, limiting their ability to initiate heavy loads. They are commonly used in applications where the starting load is light, such as in fans and small pumps.

In contrast, other motor types have different starting characteristics. For instance, a capacitor-start motor generally has a higher starting torque due to the added capacitor that improves phase shift and consequently increases starting torque. A repulsion-induction motor provides a different mechanism for starting and generally offers better performance compared to a split-phase design. Meanwhile, universal motors can run on both AC and DC and typically have high starting torque qualities and efficient performance across a wider range of applications.

Thus, understanding the unique characteristics of the split-phase motor helps clarify why it is distinct in its high electrical current draw at start-up while offering low torque initially.