Crystalized intelligence is characterized as:

The correct answer is the accumulation of knowledge and verbal skills, as crystallized intelligence refers to the brain's ability to utilize previously acquired knowledge, experiences, and verbal skills in problem-solving and decision-making. It is linked to the information and skills one has learned throughout life, such as language, factual knowledge, and expertise in specific areas. This form of intelligence generally increases as a person ages, reflecting the growth of knowledge over time.

In contrast to crystallized intelligence, the other options focus on attributes more associated with fluid intelligence or other cognitive areas. For example, the ability to quickly learn new information is more related to fluid intelligence, which involves the capacity for reasoning and solving novel problems independent of any knowledge from the past. Speedy reasoning abilities typically relate to how quickly one can process information or make decisions, which does not directly tie into the accumulation of knowledge like crystallized intelligence does. Furthermore, a creative approach to problem-solving involves thinking outside the box and applying innovative solutions, which is distinct from the straightforward use of accumulated knowledge and learned skills that crystallized intelligence embodies.