Which of the following is a method that discharges performance of a contract?

• A. Impossibility
• B. Modification
• C. Time lapse
• D. Accord and satisfaction

Answer: (A)

Discharge happens when the obligation to perform ends. Impossibility is a classic way this happens: if it’s not possible to perform the contract at all, neither party is in breach and the duty is discharged. This can occur if the subject matter is destroyed, the necessary person to perform dies (in a personal service contract), or if new laws make the planned performance illegal.

Time passing doesn’t automatically end the obligation; the contract may still require performance, or there might be limitations on bringing a claim, but mere lapse of time isn’t the same as discharging the duty. Modification changes the terms or creates a new agreement rather than ending the old duty by itself. Accord and satisfaction can discharge an obligation, but that’s a separate process requiring a new agreement and substitute performance, not the standard reason a contract is discharged simply because performance is no longer possible.