Why do some firms choose not to file for a patent and instead try to keep the results of their research a trade secret?
A)because firms must disclose information about the product or process being patented in a patent application
B)because trade secrets are never divulged
C)because a patent only gives the inventor exclusive rights to a product or process for 5 years
D)because trade secrets provide the same exclusive legal rights to a product as a patent does
E)because legal enforcement of patents is uncertain in North America

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Firms may choose to keep their research a trade secret to avoid disclosing detailed information in a patent application, which becomes public.

Why Do Some Firms Choose Not to File for a Patent