The U.S. Senate is one of the two chambers of the United States Congress, the legislative branch of the federal government. It is composed of 100 senators, with each state having two senators, regardless of its population size. The Senate is responsible for a wide range of tasks, including approving presidential nominations, ratifying treaties with other countries, and serving as the court for impeachment trials. Senators are elected to six-year terms, with one-third of the Senate up for election every two years. The Senate plays a vital role in shaping and passing legislation, representing the interests of the states, and ensuring checks and balances within the federal government.