Which of the following best defines an integer?

Which of the following best defines an integer?

• A. A number that contains a fraction
• B. A number that contains a decimal
• C. A number that does not contain either a fraction or a decimal
• D. A positive whole number only

Answer: (C)

An integer is best defined as a number that does not contain either a fraction or a decimal. Integers encompass the set of whole numbers that can be positive, negative, or zero. This includes numbers like -3, 0, 1, 5, and so forth, all of which are whole numbers without any fractional or decimal parts. Choices that suggest a number containing a fraction or decimal do not meet the definition of an integer because integers are characterized by their whole number status. Furthermore, while integers can include positive whole numbers, they are not limited to just positive numbers, eliminating any options that specify only positive whole numbers. Therefore, the definition focusing solely on the absence of fractions or decimals accurately captures the essence of what integers are.

An integer is best defined as a number that does not contain either a fraction or a decimal. Integers encompass the set of whole numbers that can be positive, negative, or zero. This includes numbers like -3, 0, 1, 5, and so forth, all of which are whole numbers without any fractional or decimal parts. Choices that suggest a number containing a fraction or decimal do not meet the definition of an integer because integers are characterized by their whole number status. Furthermore, while integers can include positive whole numbers, they are not limited to just positive numbers, eliminating any options that specify only positive whole numbers. Therefore, the definition focusing solely on the absence of fractions or decimals accurately captures the essence of what integers are.