Question

give the electron configuration for the element given. use the noble gas core preceding for the inner electrons. ge:

Explanation:

Step1: Determine the noble gas before Ge

Germanium (Ge) has an atomic number of 32. The noble gas before Ge is argon (Ar) with atomic number 18.

Step2: Find the remaining electrons

Subtract the atomic number of Ar from Ge: \( 32 - 18 = 14 \) electrons to distribute in the outer shells.

Step3: Write the electron configuration for the remaining electrons

The electron configuration for the remaining 14 electrons follows the order of orbitals. The order is \( 4s \), \( 3d \), \( 4p \). The \( 4s \) orbital holds 2 electrons, \( 3d \) holds 10 electrons, and \( 4p \) holds 2 electrons (since \( 2 + 10 + 2=14 \)). So the outer electron configuration is \( 4s^2 3d^{10} 4p^2 \).

Step4: Combine with noble gas core

Combine the noble gas core (Ar) with the outer electron configuration.

Answer:

\( [\text{Ar}] 4s^2 3d^{10} 4p^2 \)