What type of numbers are whole numbers, both positive and negative, including zero?

The correct choice is defined as integers, which encompass all whole numbers, both positive and negative, as well as zero. This classification includes numbers such as -5, 0, and 7. Integers are a fundamental concept in mathematics, as they represent a complete set of whole number values without any fractions or decimals.

Rational numbers, on the other hand, include any number that can be expressed as a fraction of two integers, which means they could be whole numbers, positive or negative fractions, or zero, but they are not limited towhole numbers alone. Real numbers constitute an even broader category that encompasses rational and irrational numbers, including decimals, but not exclusively whole numbers. Natural numbers are a simpler category that consists solely of positive whole numbers starting from 1, thus excluding zero and negative integers.

Therefore, integers are the appropriate definition that matches the description provided.