The irregular electronic configuration of Palladium (, ) compared to other members of its group is u — d and f Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The general electronic configuration of the $d$ -block is $(n-1)d^{1-10}ns^{0-2}$. Palladium ($Pd$) is a unique exception where the energy difference between $4d$ and $5s$ orbitals allows both $5s$ electrons to shift to the $4d$ subshell to achieve a highly stable, completely filled $4d^{10}$ state. Thus, its configuration is strictly $[Kr] 4d^{10} 5s^0$.