Which of the following is an air pollutant?

An air pollutant is any substance in the air, introduced by natural or human activity, that causes harm or discomfort to living organisms, or damages the environment. Let's analyze the substances mentioned:

1. O₂ (Oxygen)
Oxygen is the gas we need to breathe. It's not considered an air pollutant because it is essential for human and animal life, as well as many natural processes.

2. CO (Carbon Monoxide)
Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced by burning fuel (like in cars and factories). This gas can be very dangerous if there is a lot of it, as it can prevent oxygen from entering the bloodstream. Because of its harmful effects, it is considered an air pollutant.

3. H₂ (Hydrogen)
Hydrogen, while a flammable gas, is generally not harmful to the air or to organisms when it is released into the environment. Therefore, it is not considered an air pollutant.

4. O₃ (Ozone)
Ozone is a bit tricky because it is both good and bad. Higher up in the atmosphere, it forms a layer that protects us from the sun’s UV radiation. However, at ground level, it is a harmful air pollutant. Ground-level ozone can cause health problems such as respiratory difficulties, so in this context, it is considered an air pollutant.

In conclusion, the substances that are considered air pollutants in this context are Carbon Monoxide (CO) and ground-level Ozone (O₃).