Final answer:
The two branches of the legislature are the House of Representatives and the Senate, forming a bicameral legislature. Each has different qualifications for membership, typically involving age, residency, and citizenship requirements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two branches of the legislature are the House of Representatives and the Senate. Together, these two branches form what is known as a bicameral legislature. Members of the House of Representatives are elected for two-year terms, while Senators are elected for staggered four-year terms, with redistricting occurring every 10 years. To qualify as a member of the House, individuals must meet specific criteria (which may vary by state), commonly including being a resident of the state they represent and meeting age and citizenship requirements. Similarly, Senate members must also meet qualifications such as age, residency, and citizenship stipulations.
In summary, the bicameral legislature ensures a diverse representation and a system of checks and balances within the legislative process. The specific qualifications for Senate and House members are established to maintain a certain standard of representation for the populace.