How does the design of an axial piston pump influence its operation?

The design of an axial piston pump directly influences its operation by altering the displacement and flow rate. The configuration of the pump's pistons, typically aligned parallel to the axis of rotation, determines how much fluid is moved with each rotation of the drive shaft. Axial piston pumps can have features such as swash plates or tilted cylinders that adjust the angle of the pistons, which permits variation in the stroke length. This design enables precise control over the volume of fluid displaced with each cycle, directly affecting the flow rate.

In essence, modifications in the pump's design determine not only how much fluid is displaced but also how the fluid dynamics within the system are managed, influencing both efficiency and performance. Thus, option C accurately captures a fundamental aspect of how axial piston pump design impacts its operational capabilities.