Which of the following diatomic elements is represented by I2?

The diatomic element represented by I₂ is iodine. This can be understood from the periodic table where iodine is found in Group 17, also known as the halogens. In its natural state, iodine exists as a diatomic molecule, indicating that two iodine atoms bond together to form the I₂ molecule.

The diatomic nature of certain elements is due to their tendency to pair up to achieve stability through covalent bonding, which is essential for fulfilling the octet rule. Iodine, being one of the halogens, follows this trend. The diatomic molecules of other halogens, such as fluorine and chlorine, would be represented as F₂ and Cl₂, respectively, while nitrogen exists as a diatomic molecule in the form N₂, but is not relevant here since I₂ specifically refers to iodine. Thus, the correct choice identifying I₂ is indeed iodine.