1. What is the term used to describe inventions that are not eligible for patent protection?
a) Patentable inventions
b) Non-infringing inventions
c) Public domain inventions
d) Non-patentable inventions
Answer: d) Non-patentable inventions
Explanation: Non-patentable inventions refer to innovations that do not meet the criteria for patentability, such as discoveries, scientific theories, mathematical methods, and methods of medical treatment.
2. Which of the following is NOT a criterion for obtaining a patent?
a) Novelty
b) Utility
c) Aesthetic appeal
d) Non-obviousness
Answer: c) Aesthetic appeal
Explanation: While novelty, utility, and non-obviousness are essential criteria for obtaining a patent, aesthetic appeal is not typically a consideration for patentability.
3. What is the term of a patent in most jurisdictions, including the United States?
a) 10 years
b) 15 years
c) 20 years
d) 25 years
Answer: c) 20 years
Explanation: In most jurisdictions, including the United States, the term of a patent is 20 years from the date of filing the patent application.
4. What is the primary right granted to a patentee?
a) Right to manufacture the patented invention
b) Right to prevent others from making, using, and selling the patented invention
c) Right to sell the patented invention
d) Right to publicly disclose the patented invention
Answer: b) Right to prevent others from making, using, and selling the patented invention
Explanation: The primary right granted to a patentee is the exclusive right to prevent others from making, using, selling, or importing the patented invention without permission.
5. What is the process called when a government permits the use of a patented invention by someone other than the patent owner without the owner’s consent?
a) Patent waiver
b) Patent forfeiture
c) Compulsory license
d) Patent amnesty
Answer: c) Compulsory license
Explanation: A compulsory license is a legal mechanism by which a government allows someone other than the patent owner to use the patented invention without the owner’s consent, typically for reasons of public interest or national emergency.
6. In what circumstances can a patent be revoked?
a) If the patent holder fails to pay annual maintenance fees
b) If the patented invention is found to lack novelty
c) If the patented invention is found to be non-obvious
d) If the patent holder refuses to license the invention
Answer: b) If the patented invention is found to lack novelty
Explanation: A patent can be revoked if it is found that the patented invention lacks novelty, meaning that the invention was already known or disclosed before the patent application was filed.
7. What term describes the unauthorized use, manufacture, or sale of a patented invention?
a) Patent infringement
b) Patent breach
c) Patent violation
d) Patent encroachment
Answer: a) Patent infringement
Explanation: Patent infringement occurs when someone other than the patent owner engages in the unauthorized use, manufacture, or sale of a patented invention.
8. What is an example of an exception to patent infringement?
a) Private, non-commercial use
b) Educational use
c) Research and experimentation
d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation: Exceptions to patent infringement may include private, non-commercial use, educational use, research, and experimentation, depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances.
9. What is the primary purpose of remedies in patent law?
a) To compensate the patent holder for damages
b) To prevent future infringement
c) To invalidate the patent
d) To promote competition
Answer: b) To prevent future infringement
Explanation: The primary purpose of remedies in patent law is to prevent future infringement of the patented invention, which may include injunctions to stop infringing activities and monetary damages to compensate the patent holder.
10. Which body is responsible for the registration and administration of patents in many countries?
a) Patent Tribunal
b) Patent Authority
c) Patent Office
d) Patent Commission
Answer: c) Patent Office
Explanation: The Patent Office, also known as the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) in some countries, is responsible for the registration and administration of patents, including examination, grant, and maintenance of patents within its jurisdiction.