What is the definition of a Divisional application?

A divisional application is indeed defined as a continuation application that carves out a new invention from a previously filed application. This type of application is filed when an applicant believes that their original application contains more than one distinct invention. By filing a divisional application, the applicant can pursue one of those inventions separately while still preserving the filing date and other priorities of the parent application.

In the context of patent law, this practice allows the applicant to comply with the requirement that applications must relate to a single invention, ensuring that each application remains focused. Divisional applications are particularly useful for protecting multiple aspects of an inventive concept that may have been disclosed in an earlier, broader application.

This distinction is important as it helps to streamline the patent examination process and ensures that innovations are adequately protected while following the procedural rules set forth by the patent office. The other options do not accurately describe the specific characteristics of a divisional application, highlighting the uniqueness of its purpose in patent practice.