Final answer:
Opinion leaders are influential individuals in both online and offline communities who shape public opinion and decision-making through their communication and presence on platforms like social media.
Step-by-step explanation:
The individuals who represent about 10 percent of the adult online community and have extensive influence by communicating news, information, and experiences to a vast array of people both online and offline are known as opinion leaders. These opinion leaders can range from political elites such as journalists, politicians, and policy specialists to everyday individuals who are highly active in social circles or through media platforms. With the rise of social media forums, which have become a major source of news and information for many, the role of opinion leaders has evolved. These individuals can shape public opinion and decision-making processes through their presence on platforms where topics vary widely. They are key in distributing messages effectively, and their influence can affect a wide audience's thoughts and behaviors.