Which of the following best defines 'problem questions'?

The best definition of 'problem questions' is identifying challenges the prospect faces. In the context of professional selling, problem questions are designed to uncover the specific issues, difficulties, or pain points that a potential customer is experiencing. These types of questions help sales professionals understand the customer's needs and priorities, allowing them to tailor their solutions effectively.

By focusing on the challenges the prospect faces, salespeople can create a more engaging dialogue that encourages the prospect to think critically about their situation and the implications of their challenges. This understanding is crucial for building rapport and effectively positioning the salesperson’s product or service as a solution that addresses the specific problems identified.

While the other options focus on different aspects of the sales conversation, they do not specifically pertain to the concept of 'problem questions' as defined in sales training literature. Customer satisfaction, product knowledge, and emotional responses are important elements in the sales process but are not the primary focus of problem questions.