During the intake stroke, the exhaust valve is:

During the intake stroke, the exhaust valve is closed to ensure that the new air-fuel mixture can enter the combustion chamber without any interference. This stroke occurs when the piston moves down in the cylinder, creating a vacuum that allows the fresh mixture to fill the space. If the exhaust valve were open, it would allow exhaust gases from previous combustion to escape, resulting in a loss of pressure and a reduced volume of the air-fuel mixture that could be drawn in.

This closed state of the exhaust valve is crucial for maintaining the efficiency of the engine cycle, ensuring that the combustion process can take place effectively once the piston reaches the top of the stroke. Additionally, having the exhaust valve closed helps maintain engine compression, which is necessary for the combustion event that follows the intake phase.