It divides the government against itself, giving different branches separate functions and forcing them to share power. It checks the other branches and stops a branch from becoming too powerful. For example, Congress has the authorization to make laws. The President has the authority to prohibit the law if necessary. The Supreme Court may announce legislation unlawful.
Separation of Powers in the United States is associated with the Checks and Balances system. The Checks and Balances system provides each branch of government with individual powers to check the other branches and prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
