The two parts of the U.S. Congress are the House of Representatives and the Senate.

• The House of Representatives is the lower chamber, with 435 members whose representation is based on the population of each state. Members serve two-year terms and represent districts apportioned by population

• The Senate is the upper chamber, consisting of 100 members with each state having two senators regardless of size or population. Senators serve six-year terms, with elections staggered so about one-third of the Senate is elected every two years

This bicameral structure was established by the U.S. Constitution as a compromise to balance the interests of both large and small states, known as the Great Compromise. The House represents the people proportionally, while the Senate provides equal representation for each state

. Both chambers share legislative responsibilities but also have unique constitutional duties and powers

. Together, these two chambers make up the legislative branch of the federal government, responsible for making laws