What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?

The United States Congress is bicameral, meaning it has two distinct chambers that work together to make federal laws. The correct answer identifies these two parts as the House of Representatives and the Senate.

The House of Representatives is composed of representatives who are elected to serve two-year terms, with the number of representatives from each state determined by its population. This structure is designed to ensure that larger states have more influence in the legislative process, reflecting the population distribution across the nation.

In contrast, the Senate is made up of two senators from each state, serving staggered six-year terms. This arrangement provides equal representation to all states, regardless of their population. The Senate has unique powers, such as confirming presidential appointments and ratifying treaties, which are not shared with the House.

This structure promotes a balance of power between the two chambers, allowing for thorough debate and examination of legislation before it becomes law. Understanding this framework is essential for comprehending how the legislative branch operates within the federal government.