St. Petersburg College Civic Literacy Practice Test

Separation of powers means dividing the government’s work among separate, independent branches so no single part has all the authority. Each branch has its own powers and responsibilities, and a system of checks and balances lets the branches oversee and limit each other. For example, lawmakers create laws, the executive branch enforces them, and the courts interpret laws and resolve disputes. This structure helps prevent the concentration of power and guards against tyranny.

The other ideas describe different setups that aren’t about dividing power among branches with independent functions: concentrating power in one part, distributing authority only to local communities, or rule by a religious authority.