Final answer:
A rational number is characterized by having both numerator and denominator as integers with the denominator not equal to zero; it can be expressed as a fraction.
Step-by-step explanation:
When describing the indicated properties of key features of the rational number, it's important to note the following characteristics:
- a) The numerator and denominator are both integers, which means they are whole numbers that can be positive, negative, or zero (except for the denominator).
- b) The denominator is not equal to zero because division by zero is undefined and would not result in a rational number.
- c) The rational number can be expressed as a fraction, where the numerator represents parts of the whole and the denominator represents the total number of equal parts the whole is divided into.
- d) All of the above statements are true and collectively define the properties of a rational number.
Understanding these properties is crucial for operating with rational numbers in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, as well as for ensuring that fractions are expressed in their simplest form.