Which set of numbers includes positive whole numbers, negative whole numbers, and zero?

The correct answer is based on the definition of integers, which include all positive whole numbers, negative whole numbers, and zero. Specifically, integers are the set of numbers that can be expressed without fractions or decimals and encompass the entire number line, extending infinitely in both the positive and negative directions. This means that integers are made up of numbers like -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3, and so forth.

In contrast, rational numbers include any number that can be expressed as a fraction of two integers, which does encompass integers but is a broader category that also includes non-whole numbers. Whole numbers, on the other hand, only include the set of non-negative integers, which means they do not account for negative numbers. Irrational numbers are defined as numbers that cannot be expressed as simple fractions, such as the square root of 2 or pi, and they do not include any whole numbers at all.

Therefore, the set of integers accurately reflects the inclusion of positive whole numbers, negative whole numbers, and zero, making it the correct answer.