Final answer:
Senators in the U.S. Senate were originally appointed by state legislatures but are now directly elected due to the Seventeenth Amendment. Senators serve six-year terms, represent state-wide interests, and have unique powers, while members of the House of Representatives serve two-year terms, represent local districts, and have different legislative powers.
Step-by-step explanation:
One significant difference between the Senate and the House of Representatives is how their members attain their positions. Earlier in U.S. history, senators were appointed by state legislatures, whereas members of the House of Representatives were elected by the people within their congressional districts. The Seventeenth Amendment, ratified in 1913, changed the selection process for senators to direct popular elections, similar to that of House members. Nonetheless, there remain structural and functional differences between the two chambers.
The U.S. Senate has 100 members, with each state represented by two senators, regardless of population. Senators serve six-year terms and have distinct powers such as foreign treaties ratification and high federal officials' appointments' confirmation. The House, on the other hand, is composed of 435 representatives apportioned based on state populations, serving two-year terms, with the power to initiate revenue bills and articles of impeachment.
Whereas representatives often focus on the narrow interests of their districts, senators must address statewide concerns, reflecting a broader demographic. Additionally, Senate rules allow for extensive debate, often enabling senators to delay legislation. This contrasts with the more structured proceedings of the House, where urgent constituent demands often shape the legislative agenda.