Which of the following best defines positive and negative whole numbers?

The definition of positive and negative whole numbers is best captured by considering all integers, including zero. Whole numbers typically refer to the set of non-negative integers, which include zero and all positive integers. However, in the context of the question specifying both positive and negative whole numbers, it aligns well with the term "integers," which encompasses all whole numbers including the negative integers, zero, and the positive integers.

Choosing this option reflects a full understanding of the number system, where positive whole numbers are the natural numbers (1, 2, 3, and so forth), negative whole numbers are their counterparts (-1, -2, -3, etc.), and zero serves as a neutral element in this numeric framework. This combination gives a complete picture of what constitutes whole numbers in both positive and negative forms.