What constitutes "New Matter" in a patent application?

"New Matter" in a patent application refers to subject matter that is added to a patent application that was not originally disclosed in the application as filed. Specifically, this concept encompasses elements not found in any previously submitted drawings, claims, or specification, which can impact the examination process.

When an applicant submits additional information that includes new technical details, features, or embodiments that weren’t part of the original filing, this introduces new matter. The prohibition against introducing new matter is attentive to the principle that a patent applicant cannot be allowed to alter their application to include disclosures that will affect the outcome of patentability after the initial filing. This is to ensure that the public has clear notice of what is being claimed and to keep the patent process fair and transparent.

The other choices highlight aspects of the application process but do not directly encapsulate the concept of "New Matter." Claims support, modifications, or enhancements do not independently constitute new matter unless they introduce previously undisclosed elements to the application. Therefore, option B is the most accurate representation of what constitutes new matter in a patent application context.