How is the federal government organized, and what are the functions of its components?

The Federal government of the United States is organized according to the principles laid out in the U.S. Constitution, which establishes a system of checks and balances among three distinct but interrelated branches: the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches.

1. Legislative Branch: Also known as Congress, this branch is responsible for making the nation's laws. Congress is bicameral, meaning it consists of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Each state is represented by two Senators, while representation in the House is based on the state's population. This branch has the power to pass laws, declare war, regulate interstate and foreign commerce, control taxation and government spending, and has other specific powers enumerated in the Constitution.

2. Executive Branch: The President heads this branch of the government. The President is not only the head of state but also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. They are responsible for implementing and enforcing the laws written by Congress and, to that end, appoint the heads of federal agencies, including the Cabinet. The Vice President and the Cabinet members are principal advisors to the President.

3. Judicial Branch: This branch is made up of the court system, which includes the Supreme Court and lower federal courts. The Judicial branch interprets the meaning of laws, applies laws to individual cases, and decides if laws violate the Constitution. The Supreme Court is the highest court; its rulings are final and can only be changed by another Supreme Court decision or by a constitutional amendment.

Each of these components serves a vital function and balances the authority of the others, ensuring that no single branch can gain complete control over the government.