Aircraft systems and instrumentsQuestion 582 of 934

What does the exhaust stroke do?

  1. It purges the cylinder of burned gases
  2. It draws the fuel-air mixture into the cylinder
  3. It compresses the fuel-air mixture
  4. It ignites the fuel-air mixture
Show answer

Correct answer: It purges the cylinder of burned gases

The exhaust stroke begins when the exhaust valve opens and the piston moves toward the cylinder head.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 7: Aircraft Systems — Reciprocating Engines, page 164

Practice aircraft systems and instruments

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026