A patent: Group of answer choices includes articles or processes falling under the category of physical phenomena or abstract ideas. creates a permanent monopoly thereby discouraging the creation and utilization of new products and technologies. deprives competitors of the opportunity to use the invention without the patent holder's consent. grants its owner the exclusive right to make, use, or sell an invention or process for an indefinite period.

The correct answer is letter "C": deprives competitors of the opportunity to use the invention without the patent holder's consent.

Explanation:

Patents are grants given to the creator of innovation by which that individual is the only person with the right of use of the new technology. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is the agency in charge of evaluating the patent requests and providing them whenever suitable.  

Patents are usually given for 20 years beginning from the date when the patent application was filed in the USPTO. If approved, other individuals cannot use, replicate or exploit the innovation without the explicit permission of its creator.

answer; i believe the correct answer is energy star;