Memory Storage

Which brain structures are responsible for processing and temporarily storing explicit (declarative) memories?

The frontal lobes and the hippocampus.

What is memory consolidation?

The process of converting temporary, short-term memories into permanent long-term storage.

How do the hippocampus and cortex work together during memory consolidation?

The hippocampus processes sensory details in short-term storage and then transfers them to the cortex for long-term storage.

What role does sleep play in explicit memory consolidation?

During sleep, the brain replays the day's experiences and transfers them to the cortex, a consolidation process reinforced by spaced repetition.

How does hippocampal damage selectively impact memory formation?

It impairs the formation of new explicit memories, but the individual can still create and retain implicit memories.

Which brain structure is primarily responsible for forming classically conditioned reflexes?

The cerebellum.

Which deep brain structures are involved in forming implicit memories for motor movements and procedural skills?

The basal ganglia.

What term describes the inability of adults to recall episodic memories from before age $4$, and what causes it?

Infantile amnesia; it is caused by an undeveloped hippocampus combined with a lack of verbal skills needed to encode memories.

Which brain structure is activated by stress or excitement to heighten memory focus?

The amygdala.

What is the chain of physiological events linking stress or excitement to sharpened memory focus?

Stress or excitement prompts the release of stress hormones, which send glucose to the brain, activating the amygdala and sharpening focus.

What are flashbulb memories, and why are they remembered so vividly?

Vivid, explicit memories of emotionally significant or shocking events, which are easily recalled because strong emotional impact leads to repeated mental rehearsal.

What are synapses, and what is their role in learning?

The junctions where nerve cells communicate using neurotransmitters; they serve as the primary physical site of learning and brain change.

What is long-term potentiation (LTP)?

The strengthening of synaptic connections through repeated neural activity, serving as the primary biological foundation for learning and memory.

What physical synaptic changes occur during learning and long-term potentiation?

Neurotransmitters are released more easily across the synapse, and new synaptic connections grow.

How does an electric current affect memory retention before versus after long-term potentiation (LTP) occurs?

Before LTP occurs, memories are fragile and can be erased by an electric current; after LTP occurs, memories are consolidated and cannot be wiped out.

How do concussions disrupt recent memory formation?

A concussion temporarily shuts down working memory, preventing recent experiences from undergoing consolidation into long-term storage.