The difference between a federal government and a unitary government lies in the distribution of power. A federal government divides authority between a central entity and smaller political units, such as states or provinces, allowing for varying levels of autonomy. Conversely, a unitary government centralizes power in a single national authority, with little or no discretion granted to local entities. This distinction affects governance, law-making, and how citizens interact with their government, frequently influencing a nation’s overall political structure and stability.