Which best describes the relationship between federal and state governments in a federal system?

The relationship between federal and state governments in a federal system is characterized by a sharing of authority. In this arrangement, both levels of government are granted specific powers and responsibilities, allowing them to operate independently within their own spheres while also having the ability to work together on overlapping issues.

This dynamic fosters a system of checks and balances, where federal and state governments can each exercise their powers but are also held accountable to one another. The U.S. Constitution outlines certain powers for the federal government, while the Tenth Amendment specifically reserves powers not delegated to the federal level for the states. This framework encourages collaboration and negotiation between governments, while maintaining the autonomy of both.

In contrast, the other options suggest different dynamics that do not accurately represent the federal system's essence. Some imply complete autonomy or supremacy of one level over the other, which would undermine the foundational principles of federalism established in the Constitution. Thus, the correct understanding of this relationship is that federal and state governments share authority, reflecting the intended balance of power in a federalist system.