Final answer:
The Constitution divides governmental powers into enumerated, implied, concurrent, and reserved. Enumerated powers are specifically listed; implied powers are derived from the enumerated list and the necessary and proper clause; concurrent powers are shared by state and federal governments; and reserved powers are those not delegated to the national government but held by the states.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Government Powers
The Constitution of the United States establishes a system of federalism and divides powers between the national and state governments. There are specifically four types of powers delineated by the Constitution:
- Enumerated powers: These are powers specifically listed in the Constitution. For example, Congress has the power to coin money, regulate commerce, and declare war.
- Implied powers: Not explicitly stated in the Constitution, these powers are derived from the "necessary and proper clause" of Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the authority to pass all laws necessary and proper for carrying out the enumerated powers. An example is the establishment of the Federal Reserve Bank.
- Concurrent powers: These are shared by both the state and federal governments, such as the power to tax, build roads, and create lower courts.
- Reserved powers: These are not delegated to the national government nor prohibited to the states; they are reserved for the states. Examples include the power to issue licenses and regulate education within their territories.
In sum, the Constitution provides a balance of power between national and state levels, thus ensuring a measure of autonomy for states while establishing a strong federal government capable of uniting the diverse interests of the states into a single nation.