Which of the following defines a whole number?

A whole number is defined as a number that does not include any fractions or decimals, which captures the essence of what whole numbers represent. Whole numbers encompass all non-negative integers: 0, 1, 2, 3, and so on, extending indefinitely. The defining characteristic is the absence of any fractional or decimal part, making option C the accurate definition.

In contrast, other options introduce elements that do not align with the definition of whole numbers. While fractions and decimals are excluded from this set, whole numbers can also include zero, which is a non-negative integer contradicting the notion that whole numbers must always be positive. Additionally, the suggestion that whole numbers cannot exceed 1 is incorrect, as they can include an infinite series of values beyond 1. Thus, the clarity of option C in stating that a whole number is simply one without a fractional part validates its correctness.