Smallest Whole Number
Whole numbers are a set of numbers that include all the natural numbers (1, 2, 3, ...) as well as zero (0). When it comes to finding the smallest whole number, it is important to understand the properties of whole numbers.

Properties of Whole Numbers:
1. Non-Negative: Whole numbers are non-negative integers and do not include any negative numbers.
2. Counting Numbers: Whole numbers are used for counting objects and are represented by the set {0, 1, 2, 3, ...}.
3. Closure Property: The sum or product of two whole numbers is always a whole number.
4. Smallest Whole Number: The smallest whole number is 0. It is the starting point of the set of whole numbers and is the smallest non-negative integer.
5. Order Property: Whole numbers follow the order property, which means they can be arranged in increasing order from smallest to largest.

Explanation:
When considering the set of whole numbers, we start with zero and then move on to the counting numbers. Since zero is the smallest non-negative integer and the starting point of the set of whole numbers, it is also the smallest whole number. This is because there is no other number smaller than zero within the set of whole numbers.
Therefore, the smallest whole number is 0, and it plays a significant role in the properties and characteristics of whole numbers. Understanding the concept of the smallest whole number is essential for building a strong foundation in mathematics.

Zero