Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Law Practice Exam

What is defined as an original work that is fixed in a tangible medium of expression?

1. Copyright

2. Trademark

3. Intellectual Property

4. Patent

The correct answer is: Intellectual Property

The concept described in the question refers to an original work that is fixed in a tangible medium of expression, which aligns precisely with the definition of copyright. Copyright is a legal mechanism that grants the creator exclusive rights to use, distribute, and reproduce their original work, as long as it is fixed in a medium, such as a book, painting, or digital file. Intellectual property is a broader term that encompasses various forms of creative and intellectual assets, including copyright, trademarks, and patents. While it includes copyright, it does not specifically identify the nature of the work as being fixed in a tangible medium. Therefore, although copyright falls under the umbrella of intellectual property, it is copyright that directly addresses the question at hand. By understanding that copyright protects original works fixed in a tangible form, one can differentiate it from other types of intellectual property, such as trademarks, which protect brand names and logos, and patents, which protect inventions and processes.