Question:

The correct electronic configuration of the element Au is

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Elements like Cu, Ag, and Au show exceptional electronic configurations because completely filled \(d^{10}\) subshells provide extra stability.
Updated On: Jun 18, 2026
  • \([Xe]4f^{14}5d^{10}6s^2\)
  • \([Xe]4f^{14}5d^9 6s^2\)
  • \([Xe]4f^{14}5d^{10}6s^1\)
  • \([Xe]4f^{14}5d^9 6s^1\)
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Identify the atomic number of gold.
The element Au is gold.
The atomic number of gold is \[ Z=79 \] So, gold has 79 electrons in its neutral atom.

Step 2: Write the expected configuration.

After xenon, the electrons are filled in \(4f\), \(5d\), and \(6s\) orbitals.
The expected configuration may appear as \[ [Xe]4f^{14}5d^9 6s^2 \]

Step 3: Apply stability of completely filled \(d\)-subshell.

A completely filled \(d^{10}\) subshell is more stable than \(d^9\).
Therefore, one electron from \(6s\) shifts to \(5d\).
Thus, \[ 5d^9 6s^2 \rightarrow 5d^{10}6s^1 \]

Step 4: Write the correct configuration.

Hence, the correct electronic configuration of gold is \[ [Xe]4f^{14}5d^{10}6s^1 \]

Step 5: Final conclusion.

Therefore, \[ \boxed{[Xe]4f^{14}5d^{10}6s^1} \]
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