Separation of Powers in the Federal Government

A set of flashcards focusing on key vocabulary and definitions regarding the separation of powers in the federal government.

Separation of Powers

A doctrine that divides the responsibilities of government into three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.

Legislative Branch

The branch of government responsible for making laws, consisting of Congress.

Executive Branch

The branch of government that carries out and enforces laws; led by the President.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government that interprets laws and determines their constitutionality.

Bicameral

A legislative body composed of two chambers— the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Elastic Clause

A provision in the Constitution that allows Congress to make laws necessary for executing its powers.

Impeachment

The process by which a legislative body levels charges against a government official, which can lead to removal from office.

Natural Born Citizen

A requirement for presidential candidates stating they must be a citizen by birth.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful by providing each branch with the means to restrain the others.

Judicial Review

The power of the courts to evaluate whether a law or government action is in accordance with the Constitution.