What distinguishes a unitary system from a federal system?

A unitary system is characterized by the centralization of power, meaning that the national government holds the primary authority, and any subnational units, such as states or regions, operate under its jurisdiction. These subnational entities may have some administrative functions, but their powers are granted and can be revoked by the central authority, leading to a hierarchy where the central government is dominant.

In contrast, a federal system divides power between the national government and various subnational entities, such as states or provinces. In this framework, both levels of government have constitutionally designated powers, allowing them to operate independently within their own spheres. This division of authority creates a balance where neither level is entirely subordinate to the other.

Thus, the correct answer highlights how unitary systems centralize power while federal systems distribute and divide that power between different levels of government, establishing a more complex structure of governance.