What would happen if the centrifugal switch or relay, for cutting out the starting winding of a split-phase induction motor, failed to open while the motor was in operation?

Correct Answer: Option C — The winding would burn out.

The centrifugal switch is designed to disconnect the high-resistance start winding once the motor reaches approximately 75% of its rated speed. If the switch fails to open, the start winding remains energized, causing excessive current flow and rapid overheating, which will inevitably lead to the destruction of the winding insulation.