What is the difference between a copyright and a patent?

A copyright is a type of intellectual property law that protects works of authorship, such as literature, music, and art. A copyright owner has the exclusive right to use, reproduce, and sell the work. Copyright lasts for a limited amount of time, typically 70 years after the death of the author. In North Dakota, copyright law is governed by the United States Copyright Act of 1976. In contrast to a copyright, a patent is an exclusive right granted to an inventor for a particular invention. Patents typically last for twenty years and give the patent holder the right to prevent others from making, using, and selling the invention. In the United States, patents are granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), and North Dakota patent law is governed by the United States Patent Act of 1952. In summary, a copyright is used to protect works of authorship, while a patent is used to protect inventions. A copyright lasts for 70 years after the death of the author, while a patent lasts for 20 years. A copyright is granted by the United States Copyright Act of 1976, and a patent is granted by the United States Patent Act of 1952.

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