What best describes the authority structure in a hierarchical organizational chart?

The best description of the authority structure in a hierarchical organizational chart is that individuals at the top have authority that passes downward. This structure is characterized by a clear chain of command, where higher-level management holds decision-making power and responsibilities, which they delegate to lower levels in the organization.

In this system, top executives or managers establish policies and goals, which then permeate through the various levels of the organization. Each subordinate level typically has specific duties that align with the directives from above, creating a structured flow of authority. This allows for organized governance and ensures that there is clarity about who is responsible for what within the organization.

The other options describe different organizational concepts that don't align with the hierarchical structure. For instance, authority being equal among all individuals would imply a flat structure rather than a hierarchy. Similarly, authority being concentrated at the bottom conflicts with the foundational principle of a hierarchy, where power is typically held at the top. Lastly, stating that authority exists only within individual departments would suggest a siloed management structure that lacks the overarching control seen in a hierarchical model. Thus, the clarity of authority and responsibility flowing downward is a defining feature of hierarchical organizations.