In which of the following situations can a firm or individual apply for a patent?
A) A firm develops a new tool that makes cutting grass much easier.
B) An author publishes a new novel.
C) Nicki Minaj, a recording artist, releases a new CD in the market.
D) All of the above are activities that can be patented.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Only inventions or discoveries that are new and useful, and not obvious to a person skilled in the relevant field can be patented. A new tool that makes cutting grass much easier could potentially meet these criteria.

Answer: B and C 
 Novels and CDs are creative works and cannot be patented. They can, however, be protected by copyright.

In Which of the Following Situations Can a Firm or Individual