The correct answer is A. Helium.
Helium is the gas used in hot air balloons because it is lighter than air. This means that when hot air is blown into a balloon, the balloon will rise because the hot air is less dense than the surrounding air. Helium is also non-flammable, which makes it safe to use in hot air balloons.
Propane is a flammable gas that is used in cooking and heating. Carbon dioxide is a gas that is used in fire extinguishers and carbonated beverages. Nitrogen is a gas that is found in the air. It is not lighter than air, so it would not be used in hot air balloons.