AP Government Unit 2 Practice Review

Flashcards generated from the AP Government Unit 2 Practice Quiz covering core federalism concepts, Supreme Court cases, grant types, constitutional clauses, and free-response key details.

Why did the Supreme Court rule that a state could not tax a federal bank in McCulloch v. Maryland 1819?

Because the power to tax involves the power to destroy.

Why was the Gun-Free School Zones Act struck down in United States v. Lopez 1995?

Congress lacked authority under the Commerce Clause because the activity (gun possession near a school) was not economic.

What is an example of an implied power of Congress?

Creating the Air Force.

Which type of powers is the 10th Amendment most directly associated with?

Reserved powers.

Which type of federal grant gives states the most discretion over how funds are spent?

Block grant.

What is selective incorporation?

The process by which the Supreme Court applies most of the Bill of Rights to the states.

How is the relationship between the national government and the states described under dual federalism?

A layer cake — separate and distinct spheres of authority.

What is another name for the necessary and proper clause?

Elastic Clause.

What is an example of devolution?

The federal government returning welfare administration to the states.

What is an unfunded mandate?

A federal requirement that states must comply with, often without federal funding.

Where in the Constitution is the Commerce Clause located?

Article I, Section 8, Clause 3.

How does the limitation established in United States v. Lopez 1995 reflect the principle of federalism?

It preserves state authority over education and public safety.

How do categorical grants and block grants differ in their nature and impact on power?

Categorical grants are narrow, specific, and tightly controlled by the federal government, which increases federal power. Block grants give states broad discretion within a policy area, which shifts power back to the states.