In the cycle of operations, which option represents the process of removing the spent cartridge?

The process of removing the spent cartridge is identified as extraction. During the cycle of operations, extraction occurs when the firearm's mechanism engages to pull the empty cartridge case from the chamber of the firearm after firing. This is a crucial step that ensures that the spent casing is cleared, making way for a new round to be chambered and fired efficiently.

In contrast, ejection refers to the subsequent step where the extracted cartridge is expelled from the firearm, typically through an opening designed for that purpose. Chambering involves positioning a new round into the chamber to prepare it for firing. Locking pertains to securing the bolt in place when the firearm is ready to fire, ensuring that all components are aligned correctly for the operation of the firearm. Understanding these distinctions clarifies how each step contributes to the overall cycle of firearm operation.