Final answer:
Copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years for works created after January 1, 1978. It affects the right to reproduce, display, or perform copyrighted works. The correct answer is b. for the life of the creator plus 70 years.
Step-by-step explanation:
The duration of copyright protection for works created on or after January 1, 1978, generally lasts for the life of the author plus an additional 70 years after the author's death. For joint works, it is 70 years after the death of the last surviving author. In the case of works made for hire, pseudonymous, and anonymous works, the duration is 95 years from publication or 120 years from creation, whichever is shorter.
Copyrights provide legal protection for various types of original works of authorship, and this protection is a right granted by the federal government. It's important to note that this term was extended from 50 years to 70 years following the creator’s death, affecting numerous works including books, movies, and songs.
Therefore, answering the student's question, the correct option is b. for the life of the creator plus 70 years.