Which of the following is NOT patentable subject matter?

The concept of what constitutes patentable subject matter is fundamentally rooted in legal interpretations of the law, particularly under 35 U.S.C. § 101. Scientific principles found in nature represent abstract ideas or laws of nature that cannot be patentable because they are considered fundamental truths that cannot be owned. In essence, these principles are natural phenomena that exist independently of human intervention and therefore do not meet the requirements for patentability.

On the other hand, a new method for business operations, a unique invention using computer software, and a method of calculating statistical analyses can be considered patentable as they may involve specific applications or implementations of ideas that are not merely abstract but provide novel and non-obvious solutions to problems. These methods may have clear utility and applicability in various fields, thus qualifying them for patent protection under the appropriate criteria outlined in patent law.

In summary, scientific principles found in nature are excluded from patentability due to their inherent nature as abstract ideas, while the other options involve practical applications or technologies that have potential utility and originality, making them eligible for patents.