An American university professor derives a new formula which explains a fundamental principle of nature. In the United States, this formula:
A) can be patented.
B) cannot be patented.
C) can be patented because it is novel.
D) cannot be patented because it is not useful.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Excluded from patent protection are laws of nature, physical phenomena, and abstract ideas. Thus, a new mineral discovered in the earth, a plant found in the wild, or a mathematical formula is not patentable. Such discoveries are manifestations of nature, free to all people, and reserved exclusively to none.

An American University Professor Derives a New Formula Which Explains