Which characteristic is associated with definite integrals?

Definite integrals are characterized by their dependence on the limits of integration. This means that when calculating a definite integral, the values of the integral are determined by the specific upper and lower limits provided. The definite integral gives the net area under the curve of the function being integrated between these two limits, which can be either positive or negative based on the position of the function relative to the x-axis.

The concept of limits is essential in defining the value of a definite integral, as it specifies the exact interval over which the accumulation of area is computed. Therefore, the value of the definite integral will vary if different limits are used, further emphasizing that it is the limits of integration that fundamentally shape its result.

Other options do not align with the properties of definite integrals. For example, definite integrals can yield both positive and negative results, depending on the function and the limits chosen. They can also be evaluated using analytical methods, not just graphical ones, and while there are distinctions between definite and indefinite integrals, this particular characteristic about the dependence on limits is what primarily defines a definite integral.