App Store apps do not install properly on a fresh install of High Sierra on internal SSD or HDD

I upgraded my iMac 27-inch Mid-2011 with a 240-GB SSD alongside the existing 2-TB HDD. After the upgrade, I tested and everything worked great using the existing High Sierra system on the 2-TB HDD.

I did a new install of macOS High Sierra from Apple over the internet on to the 240-GB SSD. It was a fast and error-free installation. The iMac started up fast from the SSD and I applied system updates.

I completed all configuration tasks (setup all my preferences and installed all my applications and utilities) and then I ran it like this for a couple of days trying things out.

When it was time to add my App Store apps I ran into a snag. All my purchased apps install but will not run. When I launch them they either generate an error report, or bounce once in the dock, or do nothing at all.

I also tried adding new free apps that were not attached to my account and they behave the same way. So, I did some troubleshooting things like trying a different login and playing with permissions. Nothing works.

I spent an hour today on a support call with Apple and they were not able to figure it out and recommended I take it to for Apple authorized service.

I gave up and reinstalled the operating system on the HDD and to my surprise the same issue is happening on the original drive; that was working just fine!

Has anyone else experienced this? Can I not have two internal drives?