A series-wound DC electric motor typically requires more current at which operating condition?

In a series-wound DC electric motor, the field windings are connected in series with the armature windings, meaning that the field strength is dependent on the armature current. At low RPM, the motor generates less back electromotive force (back EMF), which is the voltage produced by the motor as it spins. Since back EMF opposes the supply voltage, a lower back EMF at low RPM means that the motor has to draw more current to maintain the required torque. This increase in current is necessary to overcome the increased load demand on the motor, especially when starting or operating at lower speeds.

In contrast, at high RPM or constant RPM, the back EMF increases, allowing the motor to operate more efficiently and draw less current for the same amount of output power. The startup condition also requires higher current, but this is typically for a very brief period as the motor accelerates from a standstill.