Identifying the True Mathematical Statement

This question requires evaluating the truthfulness of several statements about basic mathematical properties concerning whole numbers.

Analyzing Mathematical Statements

Statement 1: Observation and Experiments

Mathematics relies primarily on logic, deduction, and proof, not empirical observation or experimentation, which are hallmarks of natural sciences.

• Therefore, this statement is false.

Statement 2: Zero as Multiplicative Identity

The multiplicative identity is the number that, when multiplied by any number, yields the original number. For multiplication, this identity is 1, since $a \times 1 = a$ for any number $a$. Zero ($0$) does not satisfy this property, as $a \times 0 = 0$.

• Therefore, this statement is false.

Statement 3: Commutative Law for Division

The commutative law states that the order of operands does not affect the outcome of an operation (i.e., $a \ op \ b = b \ op \ a$). For division, this is not generally true. For example, $10 \div 5 = 2$, but $5 \div 10 = 0.5$. Since $10 \div 5 \neq 5 \div 10$, division is not commutative.

• Therefore, this statement is false.

Statement 4: Zero as Additive Identity

The additive identity is the number that, when added to any number, results in the original number. For addition, this identity is 0, because $a + 0 = a$ and $0 + a = a$ for any number $a$. This property holds true for whole numbers.

• Therefore, this statement is true.

Conclusion on Mathematical Truth

Based on the analysis, the only statement that accurately describes a property of whole numbers is that zero serves as the additive identity.