1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p²

Here's a breakdown:

* 1s²: The first energy level (n=1) has 2 electrons in the s orbital.

* 2s²: The second energy level (n=2) has 2 electrons in the s orbital.

* 2p⁶: The second energy level also has 6 electrons in the p orbital.

* 3s²: The third energy level (n=3) has 2 electrons in the s orbital.

* 3p⁶: The third energy level also has 6 electrons in the p orbital.

* 4s²: The fourth energy level (n=4) has 2 electrons in the s orbital.

* 3d¹⁰: The third energy level also has 10 electrons in the d orbital.

* 4p²: The fourth energy level also has 2 electrons in the p orbital.

Important note: The electron configuration reflects the filling of orbitals in a way that prioritizes lower energy levels, but there are some exceptions to this rule. This configuration is the most stable and energetically favorable for germanium.