Final answer:
The autoclave cycle that allows for the release of steam under pressure is known as the gravity displacement cycle. This sterilization method uses high-pressure steam to exceed water's boiling point, ensuring the destruction of microorganisms, including endospores.
Step-by-step explanation:
The autoclave cycle that allows the steam under pressure to be released from within the chamber is the gravity displacement cycle. An autoclave relies on moist-heat sterilization, using high-pressure steam to achieve temperatures above the boiling point of water, which effectively kills microorganisms, including hard-to-destroy endospores. In gravity displacement autoclaves, the air is removed by introducing steam from the top or sides, allowing air, which is denser than steam, to sink and be forced out through a vent. In contrast, prevacuum sterilizers use a high-speed vacuum to eliminate air before introducing steam, thus allowing for more thorough penetration of steam into items being sterilized. Quality control in autoclaving processes includes using recorders, heat-sensitive autoclave tape, and biological indicators to ensure the proper sterilization temperature has been reached and maintained for the necessary duration.