Question

Explain the difference between what is protected by copyright and what is protected by patent law (2 marks)

Answer 1

Protected by Copyright	Protected by Patent
1. Not the actual ideas but the expression of ideas are protected by copyright. This generally includes artistic works like books, songs, paintings, computer programs, movies etc.	1. Mostly inventions such as new machines, processes or chemicals are protected by patent.
2. Unlike patent, Copyright does not protect the idea or the process by which a particular work or product was created.	2. Unlike copyright, the patent protects the central idea and not just expressions of them.
3. If something is protected by copyright, it gives the rights to the owner to distribute the copies, rent or lease them or even transfer the ownership.	3. It gives the owner exclusive authority and the right to exclude others to exploit the patent and earn from them.
4. The validity of something that is protected by copyright extends through the life time of the author and 50-70 years (depending upon the country) after the author's death.	4. Patents are only valid for a 20 year period and post 20 years, the patent goes in public domain.