What term describes the division of powers among branches?

• A. Separation of powers
• B. Federalism
• C. Judicial review
• D. Checks and balances

Answer: (A)

Separation of powers is the arrangement that splits governmental authority into three branches with distinct responsibilities. By design, Congress writes laws, the President enforces them, and the courts interpret them. This division helps keep any one part of government from becoming too powerful and provides a system of accountability through clearly defined roles.

The other terms describe related ideas but aren’t the name for this division itself: federalism is about dividing power between national and state governments; judicial review is the courts’ power to assess laws and actions for constitutionality; checks and balances refers to the ways each branch can limit the others within the separation of powers, such as the President vetoing legislation or courts striking down laws.