In piston strokes, TDC is known as what?

The term TDC stands for Top Dead Center, which is a critical concept in the operation of internal combustion engines. At Top Dead Center, the piston reaches its highest point in the cylinder during its stroke, marking the position where the volume of the combustion chamber is at its minimum. This point is significant because it represents the moment just before the fuel-air mixture is ignited, leading to combustion, which pushes the piston down and generates power.

Understanding TDC is essential for timing the ignition in relation to the piston's position, ensuring optimal engine performance and efficiency. Thus, recognizing what TDC means and its implications in engine cycles is fundamental knowledge for anyone involved in small engine mechanics or the broader field of engine technology.