What concept describes how one branch of government can limit the actions of another branch?

The concept that describes how one branch of government can limit the actions of another branch is checks and balances. This framework is integral to the United States Constitution, designed to ensure that no single branch – executive, legislative, or judicial – can dominate the others. Each branch has specific powers and the authority to oversee the actions of the others, allowing them to check or limit each other's powers. For example, while the legislative branch makes laws, the executive has the power to veto legislation, and the judicial branch can review laws to ensure they adhere to the Constitution. This interplay promotes accountability and prevents abuses of power, fostering a balance among the branches.

The other concepts, while important to government structure, do not specifically describe this relationship. Federalism refers to the division of power between national and state governments. Separation of powers outlines the division of government responsibilities into distinct branches. Judicial review is the power of courts to assess whether a law or executive action is constitutional, but it is one aspect of the broader checks and balances system.