Which of the following best describes an integer data type?

The best description of an integer data type is that it is used to represent whole numbers. Integers are a fundamental data type in programming and computer science that successfully encapsulate numeric values without any fractional or decimal components. This means they can only represent values like -3, 0, 7, or 42, but not 3.14 or 2.718.

In programming, using the integer data type is crucial for situations that require counting, indexing, or performing mathematical operations that do not necessitate precision beyond whole numbers. The compact nature of integer storage makes it an efficient choice for performing arithmetic operations and comparisons.

The other options fail to accurately define what integers are. For example, stating that integers can hold decimal values misunderstands the definition, as that would align more with a floating-point data type. Similarly, an integer does not store textual data, which is typically represented by string data types, nor is it a boolean value, which can only be true or false. This clarifies why option B is the most appropriate and precise description of integers.