Here's how they do it:
* Photosynthesis: Plants and algae use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create their own food (sugars) through a process called photosynthesis. This process releases oxygen as a byproduct.
Other organisms that contribute to oxygen production:
* Cyanobacteria: These microscopic organisms are also photosynthetic and are thought to have played a major role in oxygenating the Earth's atmosphere billions of years ago.
* Phytoplankton: These tiny marine algae are responsible for a significant portion of the world's oxygen production.
In summary: While other organisms may contribute to oxygen production in smaller amounts, plants and algae are the main oxygen producers on Earth.