Final answer:
Atomic characteristics such as conductivity, malleability, and metallic bonding are inherent in metals. Since none of the options provided contradict these properties, the correct answer is (d) none of these.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question seeks to identify a characteristic that is not associated with metals. Based on the information provided, we know that metals demonstrate specific atomic characteristics. These include the ability to conduct electricity and heat, malleability (the ability to be hammered or pressed permanently out of shape without breaking or cracking), ductility (the ability to be stretched into a wire), and often a shiny appearance. Additionally, they have metallic bonding, which allows for a 'sea' of delocalized electrons enabling their high conductivity.
In contrast, nonmetals, such as argon, do not typically exhibit these properties. When considering metallic and nonmetallic character on the periodic table, the most reactive metals are found in the lower left portion, which denotes a strong tendency for these atoms to lose electrons during chemical reactions, as seen in their low ionization energies and electronegativities.
Given that none of the options provided (lithium as a metal, argon as a nonmetal, americium as an inner transition metal, and iron as a transition metal) contradict these general characteristics of metals, the answer indicating a property not associated with metals would be (d) none of these.