Which statement describes the principle of checks and balances? The government derives its power from the consent of the people. The powers of government are divided between the federal government and the states. Each branch of government has the power to limit the other branches. Governmental duties and responsibilities are shared among three different branches.

The second answer is correct

The answer is Each branch of government has the power to limit the other branches.

The system of check and balances is the system whereby all three branches of the government oversees, limit and check each other so no part abuse from its powers and a balance in the government exists. Through this principle, each branch can respond to the action of the other.

In the United States, this is the overall view:

The Judicial branch evaluates laws and is also able to declare unconstitutional any law the Legislative branch make, as well as any of the Executive's action. At the same time, the President is the one who nominates the Justices of the Supreme Court, and the Legislative Branch is responsible for confirming or rejecting those nominees.

The legislative branch makes laws, however, the President can veto those laws with a Presidential Veto, if this happens the legislative branch would still have a chance to override that veto with enough votes.

The legislative branch also has the power to approve Presidential nominations, control the budget, and to remove the President from office in exceptional circumstances.

The Executive branch is the one that carries out laws enacted by the Legislative branch and also nominates heads of federal departments who will enforce the laws.