Which term describes the division of government into three branches?

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

Answer: (D)

Separation of powers is the idea that government authority is divided into three branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—each with its own distinct responsibilities. This structure prevents the concentration of power by distributing duties: the legislative branch makes laws, the executive enforces them, and the judiciary interprets them. The system also creates checks and balances, so one branch cannot operate without some oversight from the others. Related concepts include checks and balances (how branches limit each other), federalism (power divided between national and state governments), and judicial review (courts interpreting laws for constitutionality).