How many justices are there on the US Supreme Court?

The United States Supreme Court consists of nine justices, which has been the case since 1869. This number was established to provide a balance on the Court and to ensure that decisions could be reached without ties. Each justice plays a crucial role in interpreting the law, and the Court's composition directly impacts its rulings on significant legal issues.

Having nine justices allows for a more diverse range of opinions and interpretations, promoting thorough deliberation over cases brought before the Court. This structure also facilitates the ability to reach majority decisions, which are necessary for the final rulings that affect law and policy across the nation. The fixed size helps maintain stability in the judicial system as well.

Regarding the other choices, they do not reflect the current structure of the Supreme Court. The number of justices has varied throughout history, but the nine justices have been the standard for over a century, providing continuity and predictability in its operations.