Final answer:
Implied powers are non-explicit authorities derived from the Constitution's elastic clause, enabling Congress to pass laws to effectively execute its enumerated powers. They've led to the establishment of significant agencies and regulations, while inherent powers like conducting foreign affairs are also crucial. The use of these powers has sometimes caused intergovernmental tension.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of implied powers refers to those authorities not explicitly spelled out in the Constitution but derived from the "elastic clause" or the necessary and proper clause. This clause, found in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, allows Congress to pass laws needed to execute its enumerated powers effectively. Over time, the use of implied powers has allowed the federal government to establish agencies and policies such as the Internal Revenue Service, public schools support, the Federal Reserve Board, and regulations prohibiting discrimination and maintaining environmental standards.
In addition to implied powers, the federal government also exercises inherent powers, which are understood to belong to any sovereign nation. These include actions like acquiring new territories and conducting foreign affairs. Both implied and inherent powers have played crucial roles in the expansion of the federal government's role in various policy areas, sometimes leading to tension between different levels of governmental authority.