The term that describes the division of government responsibilities into distinct branches is separation of powers. This concept, fundamental to modern democracies, ensures that the legislative, executive, and judicial branches operate independently while providing checks and balances on each other. By distributing power among different branches, the separation of powers aims to prevent the concentration of authority and protect individual liberties. This foundational principle helps maintain a system of accountability, where each branch serves to limit the potential abuses of power by the others.