Chapter 7: Memory Flashcards
What is memory?
The ability of the nervous system to retain and retrieve skills and knowledge
Memory makes it possible to record and store information form experiences for later use
What are the 3 phases in information processing for memory?
Encoding
Storage
Retrieval
When does coding take place?
Learning
Into what does the brain convert information into?
Neural code
What is storage for memory?
The preservation of the undecided representation
What is consolidation?
Neural connections that support memory become stronger and new synapses are formed, which is known as consolidation
What is retrieval?
Reaching into the memory store to find and recall a previously encoded and stored memory when needed
What is reconsolidation?
As soon as the memories are activated, they are reconsolidated to be stored in the memory again
When does reconsolidation happen?
Happens every time a memory is activated and placed back in the memory
Therefore, memories of events can change over time
What does Hebb propose about memory?
Proposed that memory is the result of changes in the synaptic connections
When one neuron excites another, changes take place that strengthen the connection between the two neurons
‘Cells that fire tighter wire together’
What is long term potentiation (LTP)?
A process central to the neural basis of memory consolidation
LTP is the strengthening of a synaptic connection, making postsynaptic neurons easier to activate
A requirement for LTP is the NMDA receptor on the postsynaptic neuron. What is the NMDA?
NMDA is a glutamate receptor that only responds when there is a large amount of glutamate available in the synapse
Epigenetic mechanisms, such as HDAC, are important for memory. What are HDAC?
HDAC is a group of enzymes that inhibit gene expression
Blocking HDAC can lead to increased memory
HDAC functions as an interruption to the memory
This interruption temporarily disappears when something important happens in the environment
What is the term engram?
Refers to the physical place of storage in memory
However we now know there is no storage palce
What did Lashley find?
Found that memory is distributed throughout the brain, an idea known as equipotential
What did we learn about the brain and memory from HM?
We now know that regions within the temporal lobes, such as the hippocampus, are important for the ability to store new memories
What is the sensory memory?
Is a temporary memory system related to the sensory systems
How long does sensory memory last?
Only lasts a fraction of a second before that information is converted into neural impulses
What is another name for visual sensory memory?
Ionic memory
What is another name for auditory sensory memory?
Echo memory