When Does a Patent Enter the Public Domain

question 73

Multiple Choice

When does a patent enter the public domain?

• A) when the patent term period has expired
• B) when the patent has been challenged in court and found to be an infringement
• C) when the government deems that the practical purpose of the invention is universally applicable and cannot be controlled by one individual or group of people
• D) when the invention is either obvious or not a novel one

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Definitions:

Existing laws

Currently enacted and enforceable legal rules governing behavior, relationships, and societal standards.

Moral development

The process through which individuals acquire values, behaviors, and thoughts about right and wrong that guide responsible and socially acceptable conduct.

Parental

Pertaining to a parent or guardianship, involving responsibilities of caring for or raising children.

Peer influences

The impact that individuals of similar age or status in a group have on each other’s behaviors or attitudes.