Which of the following is a characteristic of a federal system of government?

A federal system of government is defined by the distribution of power between national and state governments, allowing each level to operate within its own sphere of authority. This characteristic is crucial as it provides a framework for governance that can accommodate diverse needs across different regions. In a federal system, both national and state governments have the power to legislate and govern, leading to a system of checks and balances that helps prevent the concentration of power in one entity.

The division of power allows for local adaptation of laws and policies to better serve the specific needs and conditions of state populations, while also maintaining a strong central government that can unite the country on larger issues. This collaboration fosters a dynamic relationship between various levels of government, allowing them to work together and address issues that may span multiple jurisdictions effectively.

The other options do not align with the fundamental principles of a federal system. Centralized power in a single leader reflects an authoritarian or unitary government structure rather than a federal one. A complete lack of state authority contradicts the very nature of federalism, as states need a certain degree of autonomy. Lastly, temporary alliances between states could describe a confederation or cooperative agreements, but they do not encapsulate the ongoing power-sharing dynamic that is characteristic of federal systems.