What is the set of whole numbers that includes all positive and negative numbers along with zero?

The set of whole numbers that includes all positive and negative numbers along with zero is defined as integers. Integers encompass the entire set of whole numbers, which means they include not only the positive whole numbers (1, 2, 3,...) and zero, but also the negative whole numbers (-1, -2, -3,...). This comprehensive inclusion of both positive and negative values, as well as zero, distinguishes integers from other number sets.

Rational numbers include fractions and can be positive or negative, but they do not exclusively represent whole numbers. Decimals represent numbers that may not be whole and can also be positive or negative, but do not qualify as whole numbers. Whole numbers are specifically the non-negative integers starting from zero and moving upwards (0, 1, 2,...), thus excluding negative numbers entirely. Therefore, integers are the correct answer as they perfectly encompass the entire range of whole numbers, both negative and positive, along with zero.