How many ways can every whole number and fraction be expressed?

Every whole number and fraction can be expressed in multiple forms, which include distinct methods of representation.

For a whole number, it can simply be stated as it is, like '5'. Additionally, it can be expressed in fraction form, such as '5/1', and it can also be represented in decimal form, like '5.0'. Thus, these representations contribute significantly to how a whole number is expressed.

On the other hand, a fraction typically appears in its simplest form, such as '3/4'. Likewise, it can be expressed as a decimal, which would be '0.75'. Moreover, fractions can also be expressed as whole numbers when necessary, like '0.75' can be written as '75/100' or '3/4'. These various means of representation highlight the different ways numbers can be articulated depending on the context in which they are used.

Thus, the correct way to quantify the expressions includes counting the whole number, its fractional representation, its decimal form, and the ability to express fractions as a whole number or another fraction—leading to a total of three fundamental ways, as reflected in the provided answer.