A bicameral legislature consists of two chambers, typically an upper and a lower house, which can provide a system of checks and balances. This structure allows for more thorough deliberation and diverse representation of interests, as legislation must pass through both chambers. In contrast, a unicameral legislature has only one chamber, which can lead to quicker decision-making but may lack the checks offered by a bicameral system. The choice between these legislative formats reflects a state’s values, governance goals, and historical context, impacting the intricacies of lawmaking.