Final answer:
A voting system in which voters cast multiple votes equal to the number of positions available is known as block vote or plurality-at-large voting. It differs from the winner-take-all system, where the candidate with the most votes wins even without a majority. The majority election system requires over 50 percent of votes for a win, or else a runoff election is held.
Step-by-step explanation:
The voting system in which voters are allowed to cast multiple votes, usually equal to the number of positions available in an election, is typically known as a block vote or plurality-at-large voting. This system allows a voter to cast several votes for different candidates in a multi-member district.
The candidates with the most votes secure the available seats. For example, if there are three seats available, voters may choose three candidates, and the three candidates with the highest number of votes are elected.
In contrast, other systems such as the winner-take-all or first-past-the-post system require the candidate to secure the most votes to win, which may result in a candidate winning without a majority when there are several contenders.
This system is prevalent in the United States, especially for Congress and presidential elections. Conversely, the majority election system requires the winning candidate to receive at least 50 percent plus one vote; otherwise, a runoff is held between the top candidates.