Copper

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Copper has exceptional electronic configuration [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s¹ instead of [Ar] 3d⁹ 4s² because:

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The electronic configuration of Copper ($Cu$, $Z=29$) is an exception to the Aufbau principle.
- **Reason**: A **completely filled $d^{10}$ subshell** is exceptionally stable due to **symmetry** and **high exchange energy**.
- To achieve this stability, one electron from the $4s$ orbital shifts to the $3d$ orbital. 
- Configuration: $[Ar] \, 3d^{10} \, 4s^1$ (rather than $3d^9 \, 4s^2$). Chromium ($Cr$) shows a similar exception for a half-filled ($3d^5$) stable state.

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