Here's why:

* Element: An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Fluorine (F) is an element.

* Diatomic: Diatomic means consisting of two atoms.

* Compound: A compound is formed when two or more different elements chemically combine in a fixed ratio.

Since F2 is made up of two atoms of the same element (fluorine), it is a diatomic element, not a compound.