Who is responsible for granting patents in the United States?

The correct choice is the US Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) because this agency is specifically designated to oversee the patent process in the United States. The PTO examines patent applications to determine if they meet the necessary legal criteria for patentability, which includes considerations of novelty, non-obviousness, and utility. Once an application is approved, the PTO grants the patent and maintains records related to patents.

Other entities mentioned do not have the same responsibilities. For instance, while Congress has the authority to create laws regarding patents, including establishing the framework for the patent system under the Constitution, it does not handle the application or granting process directly. The Supreme Court interprets patent laws but is not involved in granting patents itself. Similarly, the Federal Bureau of Investigation is focused on law enforcement and national security, with no role in patent administration. Thus, the PTO stands out as the recognized body responsible for managing the patent application process and granting patents in the U.S.