In a parallel R-C circuit, the current always _________the applied voltage

The correct answer is: A. Lags

In a parallel R-C circuit, the current always lags the applied voltage. This is because the capacitor stores charge, which takes time to build up. As the capacitor charges, the current decreases. When the capacitor is fully charged, the current is zero. As the capacitor discharges, the current increases in the opposite direction.

Option B is incorrect because the current does not lead the applied voltage. Option C is incorrect because the current does not remain in phase with the applied voltage. Option D is incorrect because the current does lag the applied voltage.