Final answer:
Strontium is the element that is a metal among the given options. It is an alkaline earth metal belonging to Group 2 of the periodic table and exhibits metallic properties such as conductivity and malleability.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks which of the following elements is a metal: nitrogen, fluorine, argon, strontium, or phosphorus. Among these options, strontium is the element that is a metal. Strontium belongs to Group 2 of the periodic table, which contains the alkaline earth metals. Metals are characterized by their ability to conduct heat and electricity, and they typically have a shiny appearance and are malleable and ductile. Strontium exhibits these properties.
To help clarify, here is a brief overview of the elements mentioned in the question in terms of their classification:
- Nitrogen (N) is a nonmetal and is part of Group 15 (pnictogens).
- Fluorine (F) is a halogen, which is a nonmetal, in Group 17 of the periodic table.
- Argon (Ar) is a noble gas and is therefore nonmetal, found in Group 18.
- Strontium (Sr) is an alkaline earth metal in Group 2.
- Phosphorus (P) is another nonmetal located in Group 15.