Which element corresponds to the electron configuration [Xe] 6s²?

The electron configuration [Xe] 6s² corresponds to the element Barium (Ba). In this configuration, [Xe] represents the electron configuration of the noble gas Xenon, which includes the electrons in the filled inner shells. The 6s² part indicates that there are two electrons in the outermost s subshell of the sixth energy level.

Barium is found in Group 2 of the periodic table, known as the alkaline earth metals. These elements typically have two electrons in their outer s subshell, which is consistent with the configuration of Barium. Additionally, Barium has the atomic number 56, which accurately reflects the total number of electrons indicated by this electron configuration, considering the contribution from Xenon.

The other elements listed do not match the electron configuration specified:

• Cesium (Cs) has an electron configuration of [Xe] 6s¹, showing one electron in the 6s subshell.

• Tantalum (Ta) has a more complex electron configuration that includes inner d and f orbitals, specifically ending with 5d³ 6s².

• Tungsten (W) also has a more complex configuration ending in 4f¹⁴ 5d⁴ 6