What does the term "inventorship" refer to in the context of patent applications?

The term "inventorship" specifically refers to individuals who contribute to the conception of a patentable invention. Conception is the critical point in the invention process where the idea is fully formed, and it is not merely a matter of helping with the practical or financial aspects of bringing the invention to market. Thus, individuals who can be recognized as inventors are those who have played a role in the creation of the essential and novel ideas that underpin the invention.

In the context of patent law, accurate identification of inventors is vital because a patent can only be granted to those who are true inventors. This ensures that credit is given to those who have genuinely added to the body of knowledge by developing new inventions. Consequently, the correct answer highlights the importance of conception in determining who qualifies as an inventor, differentiating it from roles focused on marketing, funding, or the administrative task of filing the patent application.