Final answer:
The system that stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful is checks and balances, which involves each of the three branches having powers to limit the others. The correct option is 3. checks and balances
Step-by-step explanation:
What stops one branch of government from being too powerful is the system known as checks and balances. Each of the three branches of government (legislative, executive, and judicial) has certain powers that allow it to check the authorities of the other branches and require them to cooperate.
This is a foundational principle of the United States Constitution, established to maintain a balance of power and prevent any single branch from becoming too dominant.
For example, the president (executive branch) can veto legislation from Congress (legislative branch), but Congress can override that veto with a two-thirds majority. Furthermore, the Supreme Court (judicial branch) can declare laws unconstitutional, checking the powers of both the executive and legislative branches.
Checks and balances is the primary mechanism that prevents one branch of government from becoming too powerful. Each branch has the ability to check or restrict some of the powers of the other branches.
The correct option is 3. checks and balances