Which process involves the release of oxygen as a byproduct?

Photosynthesis is the process where plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. During this process, carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil are used, and through a series of reactions powered by sunlight, glucose is produced alongside oxygen. The oxygen produced during photosynthesis is a byproduct that is released into the atmosphere, which is crucial for the survival of most living organisms on Earth as it is used in cellular respiration.

In contrast, cellular respiration primarily involves the consumption of oxygen to break down glucose for energy, resulting in carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. Evaporation and condensation are physical processes involving water transitioning between liquid and gas states, with no change in their chemical structure or the release of oxygen. Thus, photosynthesis is the only process listed that specifically produces and releases oxygen.