Which statement is correct regarding a four-stroke cycle aircraft engine?

In a four-stroke cycle aircraft engine, the operation occurs in four distinct phases: intake, compression, power, and exhaust. During the compression stroke, the intake valve that was open during the intake phase closes to contain the air-fuel mixture within the cylinder. This closure is essential because it allows for the proper compression of the mixture, which is necessary to achieve efficient combustion during the power stroke.

Once the piston reaches the top of its travel after compressing the mixture, the spark plug ignites it, leading to the power stroke. Each of these strokes is crucial for the engine to function properly and efficiently, and the closing of the intake valve at the onset of the compression stroke is especially critical for maintaining pressure and achieving the desired performance during the power stroke.

In contrast, during the other phases, the timing of valve openings and closings operates under different circumstances, making option C the sole correct statement related to valve operation during the four-stroke cycle.