When a motor starts, the current drawn is at least ____ times the motor FLA, known as motor locked-rotor current (LRC).

The correct answer reflects the typical behavior of electric motors during startup. When a motor starts, it requires significantly more current than its full-load amps (FLA) because it has to overcome the inertia of the load and the internal friction of the motor itself. This initial surge of current is referred to as the locked-rotor current (LRC).

For most motors, the LRC is commonly around 6 times the FLA. This high starting current can create challenges for electrical systems, such as voltage drops and potential damage to components if the system is not properly designed to handle this influx of current. The understanding of LRC is critical in the design and selection of motor protection devices and is an important aspect of ensuring reliable operation in various applications.

In contrast, while choices like 3, 5, or 8 times the FLA may also be related to specific types of motors or unique situations, 6 times is widely recognized as a standard for many common motor types, making it the most accurate answer in this context.