In which of the following categories does a patent fall?

A patent is classified as intellectual property because it represents the legal rights granted to an inventor or assignee for their invention. This category encompasses creations of the mind, including inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce. Intellectual property laws are designed to protect creators and encourage innovation by giving them exclusive rights to use and profit from their creations for a specific period.

In contrast, physical property relates to tangible items and real estate, while financial assets pertain to investments or monetary resources. Sole proprietorship assets are specific to businesses owned by a single individual and do not encompass the broader protections granted to inventions under intellectual property law. Thus, the classification of a patent falls exclusively under intellectual property, distinguishing it from these other categories.