In a bicameral system, legislatures function through two separate chambers, typically an upper and a lower house. Each chamber has distinct roles in the legislative process, with the lower house often representing the population directly and the upper house usually acting as a stabilizing force. They collaborate on drafting, amending, and approving legislation, but each may have different powers regarding budgetary and foreign policy matters. The bicameral structure aims to balance representation and prevent the concentration of power.