During which process does water release energy into the environment?

The process during which water releases energy into the environment is condensation. This occurs when water vapor in the air cools and changes into liquid water droplets, such as when clouds form. During condensation, latent heat that was initially absorbed during evaporation is released back into the surrounding environment. This release of energy can lead to various atmospheric phenomena, including the warming of the air and the potential development of weather patterns, such as rain.

In contrast, evaporation involves the absorption of energy, as liquid water transforms into water vapor. Freezing is another process where energy is released, but it is specific to the transformation from liquid water to ice. Runoff refers to the movement of water across the land surface and does not involve a phase change of water that releases energy. Thus, condensation is the correct choice, as it specifically highlights the release of energy during the transition from gas to liquid.