Bicameral legislatures, consisting of two chambers, are significant in governance as they provide checks and balances on legislative power. This structure can enhance representation, ensuring that diverse interests are considered in the policymaking process. For example, one chamber may represent population density, while the other ensures equal representation among regions. This dual system encourages deliberation and compromise, potentially improving the quality of legislation. However, it may also lead to gridlock if the two chambers have conflicting priorities. Thus, bicameralism shapes both the effectiveness and efficiency of governance.