the limbic system

the part of the limbic system that is important for forming new memories

hippocampus

controls emotional responses like fear and aggression

amygdala

helps regulate basic bodily functions such as hunger, thirst, and body temperature

hypothalamus

acts as a relay station, sending sensory information to different parts of the brain

thalamus

closely connected to the limbic system, which is why certain … can trigger strong memories

smell [scents]

what part of the limbic system is most directly involved in storing long-term memories?

hippocampus

what is the main function of the amygdala?

processing emotions such as fear

which of the following is NOT considered part of the limbic system?

cerebellum

what is the hypothalamus responsible for?

regulating hunger and body temperature

why are smells often linked with strong memories?

olfactory signals travel through the limbic system

explain how the limbic system can influence a person’s behavior in a stressful situation

- “fight or flight” response

- managing emotional memories

- managing physical changes that the body experiences when it thinks it is in danger e.g. sweating

describe how the hippocampus and amygdala work together to help you remember emotional events

- amygdala marks emotional events as important

- hippocampus prioritizes remembering memories with strong emotions

- emotional memories are remembered more vividly and longer than neutral memories

why might damage to the hippocampus affect a person’s ability to form new memories?

- it’s essential for transferring new experiences into lasting memories