What type of number data types can be either whole numbers or numbers that can have decimal parts?

The type of number data types that can be either whole numbers or numbers that have decimal parts is known as Real (or Float). This data type is specifically designed to represent real numbers that can include fractions, allowing for the representation of both whole numbers (like 1, 2, or 3) and non-whole numbers with decimal points (like 1.5, 3.14, or -0.7).

In programming and computer science contexts, floating-point representation accommodates a vast range of values, including very small and very large numbers with precision, making it suitable for calculations that require decimal precision. This is essential for applications in various fields such as scientific calculations, graphics, and financial analysis where decimal precision is critical.

In contrast, the integer data type only holds whole numbers, without any decimal components, which makes it unsuitable for cases where fractions are needed. The character data type is meant for individual characters or strings of text and does not represent numerical values. The boolean data type is used to represent truth values, typically true or false, rather than numeric values. Thus, the Real (or Float) data type is the only option among the choices that can encompass both whole numbers and numbers with decimal parts.