What are the two main parts of the United States Congress?

The correct answer identifies the two main components of the United States Congress as the Senate and the House of Representatives. This structure is established by the U.S. Constitution, which created a bicameral legislature to ensure a system of checks and balances within the legislative process.

The Senate consists of two senators from each state, regardless of the state's population, serving staggered six-year terms, which provides a degree of stability and continuity. In contrast, the House of Representatives is made up of members who are apportioned based on the population of each state, reflecting the democratic principle of representation proportional to the number of constituents. Members of the House serve two-year terms, making it more responsive to the changing sentiments of voters.

Congress is responsible for making laws, and the division into two houses is designed to prevent hasty or ill-considered legislation by requiring consensus in both chambers for any law to pass. This design fosters debate and thorough discussion on proposed legislation, balancing the interests of different states and the varied needs of the country as a whole.