Let's discuss the properties of whole numbers and addition before concluding the solution.
1. Definition of Whole Numbers: Whole numbers include all non-negative integers. Examples of whole numbers are 0, 1, 2, 3, and so on.
2. Addition of Whole Numbers: When adding two whole numbers, the result is obtained by summing the values.
For this problem, let's consider any two whole numbers:
- Let [tex]\( x = 1 \)[/tex] (a whole number)
- Let [tex]\( y = 2 \)[/tex] (another whole number)
Next, perform the addition:
[tex]\[ x + y \][/tex]
Substituting the values:
[tex]\[ 1 + 2 = 3 \][/tex]
Notice that the result, 3, is a whole number. This example demonstrates what happens when adding these specific whole numbers.
However, to generalize:
- Adding any two whole numbers always results in another whole number. This is a fundamental property of whole numbers and addition.
Hence, the sum of two whole numbers is always a whole number.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
A) always whole number
