Which element is represented by the configuration [Xe] 6s^2 4f^14 5d^10 6p^4?

The electron configuration [Xe] 6s^2 4f^14 5d^10 6p^4 indicates that the element in question has a total of 34 electrons beyond the noble gas core represented by xenon (Xe).

The notation tells us the following about the electron distribution:

• The 6s subshell contains 2 electrons.

• The 4f subshell is fully filled with 14 electrons.

• The 5d subshell is also completely filled with 10 electrons.

• The 6p subshell contains 4 electrons.

When adding these up (2 + 14 + 10 + 4), you arrive at a total of 30 electrons beyond xenon’s 54, which points to an atomic number of 84 when combined with the 54 from xenon.

In the periodic table, the element with atomic number 84 is polonium (Po). The position of polonium in group 16 suggests it behaves similarly to other group 16 elements, which corresponds to its placement in the p-block. The electron configuration reflects polonium's nature as a post-transition metal with its unique properties and reactivity.

Therefore, the correct choice represented by the given electron configuration