In which area does a federal government and a confederation MOST differ? A. the commitment to coordination in matters of mutual defense and trade B. the balance of power between states and the central government C. the division of the country into administrative districts D. the protection of civil rights and civil liberties

## Step 1<br />The question is asking us to identify the primary difference between a federal government and a confederation. <br /><br />## Step 2<br />A federal government is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces. This division of power is typically outlined in a constitution.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />On the other hand, a confederation is a system of government where the constituent political units retain a high degree of sovereignty and the central authority has limited power.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Comparing these two systems, the primary difference lies in the balance of power between the central government and the constituent political units. In a federal government, the power is more evenly distributed between the central authority and the constituent political units, while in a confederation, the constituent political units retain a high degree of sovereignty.