Answer :

Potassium is a metal that falls into group 1 of the periodic table, which consists of alkali metals. It is known for being shiny, malleable, and an excellent conductor of heat and electricity.

Potassium is classified as a metal based on its location in the periodic table. Specifically, potassium falls into group 1, which consists of the alkali metals, known for their reactivity and metallic properties, including shininess, malleability, and excellent conductivity of heat and electricity. The substances it forms with nonmetals, such as iodine from group 17, are typically predicted to be ionic compounds, like potassium iodide (KI).

Final answer:

The correct option is 1) metal. Potassium is classified as a metal, as it is located in group 1 of the periodic table and exhibits typical metallic properties such as shininess and conductivity.

Explanation:

The correct option is 1) metal. Potassium (K) is an element located in group 1 of the periodic table which is characterized by elements that are highly reactive metals. As per its location, potassium is categorized as a metal. This classification is indicative of its physical properties which include being shiny, malleable, ductile, and a good conductor of heat and electricity.

To answer the question directly, Potassium is a metal. Additionally, metals, nonmetals, and metalloids have distinct properties and positions on the periodic table, with metals occupying the majority of the table to the left, nonmetals found primarily in the upper right-hand corner, and metalloids or semimetals displaying intermediate properties located along the zig-zag line dividing metals and nonmetals.