UK A-Levels Politics Practice Exam

What does the term "turnout" refer to in a political context?

1. The number of parties participating in an election

2. The percentage of eligible individuals who actually vote

3. The total number of votes cast in an election

4. The frequency of elections held in a year

The correct answer is: The percentage of eligible individuals who actually vote

In a political context, "turnout" specifically refers to the percentage of eligible individuals who actually vote in an election. This measure is crucial as it indicates the level of public engagement and interest in the electoral process, and it can have significant implications for the legitimacy and representational quality of the results. High turnout is often seen as a sign of a healthy democracy, while low turnout may raise questions about the political system's responsiveness and the public's connection to it. The other options refer to different aspects of elections, such as the number of parties involved or the overall vote count, but they do not capture the essence of what turnout signifies in political discourse.