Step 1: Concept
Germanium (Ge) is a group 14 element.
Step 2: Meaning
Group 14 elements (like Silicon and Germanium) have 4 valence (outer) electrons per atom.
Step 3: Analysis
If each atom contributes 4 outer electrons and there are N atoms in the crystal.
Step 4: Conclusion
The total number of outer electrons is $4 \times N = 4N$.
Final Answer: (E)