Which term describes the division of government powers among separate branches?

• A. Separation of Powers
• B. Checks and Balances
• C. Rule of Law
• D. Federalism

Answer: (A)

Separation of powers is the idea that government powers are divided into distinct branches—typically the legislative, executive, and judicial—with each branch having its own roles. This arrangement helps prevent the concentration of power in one place and allows each branch to specialize. The legislature makes laws, the executive carries them out, and the judiciary interprets them, creating a system where abuses are less likely and accountability is enhanced.

Other terms describe related ideas but not the basic division itself. Checks and balances refers to the mechanisms that let one branch restrain the others; Rule of Law stresses that everyone, including the government, must follow the law; Federalism concerns the distribution of power between national and state or regional levels.