Question

how does a confederation differ from a federation?
○ a confederation has a strong balance of power, while a federation gives all power to the central government.
○ a confederation gives all power to the central government, while a federation has no balance of power.
○ a confederation is a strong union between states, while a federation has no balance of power.
○ a confederation is a weak union between states, while a federation has a strong balance of power.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze the definitions of confederation and federation:

• A confederation is a weak union of states, where states retain most power.
• A federation (e.g., the U.S.) has a strong balance of power between the central government and states (or provinces).

Now, evaluate the options:

• First option: Incorrect (confederation is weak, federation has balance).
• Second option: Incorrect (confederation does not give all power to the central government; federation has balance).
• Third option: Incorrect (confederation is weak, federation has balance, not “no balance”).
• Fourth option: Correct (matches the definitions: confederation = weak union; federation = strong balance of power).

Answer:

A confederation is a weak union between states, while a federation has a strong balance of power.