Bar Exam Practice Questions

Which term refers to dividing government responsibilities into distinct branches?

1. Delegated powers

2. Federalism

3. Checks and balances

4. Separation of powers

The correct answer is: Separation of powers

The term that refers to dividing government responsibilities into distinct branches is "Separation of powers." This principle is foundational to the structure of many democratic governments, particularly in the United States. It delineates the powers and responsibilities of the three main branches of government: the legislative, the executive, and the judicial. Each branch is tasked with specific functions and has its own independent authority, which helps to prevent the concentration of power and promotes a system of governance characterized by a series of checks and balances. In this context, the concept differs from the other terms provided. Delegated powers involve the specific powers assigned to the federal government by the Constitution, often relating to the powers exercised by the legislative branch. Federalism describes a system of governance in which power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units (like states), rather than focusing solely on the internal division of responsibilities within the government. Checks and balances refer to the mechanisms that allow each branch to limit the powers of the others, ensuring that no single branch becomes too powerful, but this concept arises from the framework established by the separation of powers. Thus, while all terms are relevant to governmental structure, the most accurate term for the division of responsibilities into distinct branches is separation of powers.