What is a characteristic of a 'locked-rotor' current?

A characteristic of 'locked-rotor' current is that it occurs when the motor is starting and the rotor does not turn. This current is typically observed during the initial startup phase of the motor when it encounters a load that prevents it from rotating. At this moment, the motor draws a high amount of current because there is minimal back electromotive force (EMF) generated due to the lack of movement. The locked-rotor current can be several times higher than the motor’s full-load current, which is essential to understand since it impacts the electrical supply and protection mechanisms for the motor.

This characteristic highlights the significant difference between normal operating conditions and startup conditions. Continuous operation of the motor requires a lower, stable current that correlates to its designed loading conditions, which is why the other choices do not accurately describe locked-rotor current.