Final answer:
The process of steam condensing into liquid water is exothermic, as heat is released from the system to the surroundings.
Step-by-step explanation:
When steam condenses into liquid water, this process is known as condensation, which is exothermic. During condensation, heat leaves the system and transfers to the surroundings, thereby increasing the temperature of the surroundings. The correct answer is, "the heat leaves the system and is considered an exothermic process". Phase changes from gas to liquid, as well as from liquid to solid, are examples of exothermic processes; they release heat into the environment. In contrast, the process of vaporization, where liquid turns into gas, requires heat from the surroundings, making it an endothermic process.