Which of the following is a characteristic of rodents?

Rodents are uniquely characterized by their continuously growing incisors. This adaptation is crucial for their survival, as it allows them to gnaw on a variety of materials, including wood, roots, and other tough substances that they encounter in their natural habitats. The growth of their incisors helps prevent them from becoming too long, which could lead to difficulties in feeding and other health issues. This characteristic differentiates them from many other animal groups whose teeth do not have such a continuous growth pattern.

In contrast to this defining feature, the other options represent attributes that are not typically associated with rodents. Rotating jaws are found in some other animal types, while four-chambered stomachs are characteristic of ruminants, like cows, which are not rodents. Long tails may be present in some rodent species, but they do not serve primarily for balance, making this feature less definitive in identifying rodents. The aspect of continuously growing incisors is a key trait that is central to the biology and ecology of rodents, emphasizing their adaptability and feeding behaviors.