The element released in the process of photosynthesis is oxygen (O₂).

Here's the basic breakdown:

* Photosynthesis: Plants use sunlight, water (H₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂) to create glucose (sugar) for energy and release oxygen as a byproduct.

* Chemical Equation: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

* This shows that six molecules of carbon dioxide and six molecules of water are converted into one molecule of glucose and six molecules of oxygen.

So, the oxygen we breathe comes from plants and algae performing photosynthesis!