Power factor and three-phaseQuestion 1263 of 1506

What kind of power factor does an induction motor present to the line?

  1. Leading
  2. Always unity
  3. Leading at light load only
  4. Lagging
Show answer

Correct answer: Lagging

The motor is an inductive load, so its current lags the voltage.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits II: AC (Kuphaldt), 13.7: Tesla Polyphase Induction Motors

Practice power factor and three-phase

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026