Explain the difference between short term and long term memory?
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ChatGPT
Jun 12
Short-term memory refers to the temporary storage of information that is currently being processed. It has a limited capacity and duration, typically lasting for only a few seconds to a few minutes. Short-term memory is responsible for holding onto information that is needed for immediate tasks, such as remembering a phone number or a list of items to buy at the grocery store.
On the other hand, long-term memory refers to the storage of information that is retained over a longer period of time, potentially for a lifetime. Long-term memory has a much larger capacity than short-term memory and can hold a vast amount of information, including facts, experiences, and skills. Long-term memory is responsible for storing information that is not needed for immediate use but may be recalled at a later time, such as remembering events from childhood or recalling historical facts.
In summary, the main differences between short-term and long-term memory are their capacity, duration, and the type of information they store. Short-term memory is temporary and has a limited capacity, while long-term memory is more permanent and can hold a larger amount of information.
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Google Gemini AI
Jun 12
Short Term Memory (STM)
- Capacity: Limited to a small number of items (7 plus or minus 2) - Duration: Retained for a relatively short period of time (seconds to minutes) - Encoding: Uses simple rehearsal strategies (e.g., repeating the information) - Retrieval: Requires conscious effort and can be disrupted by distractions or interruptions
Long Term Memory (LTM)
- Capacity: Virtually unlimited - Duration: Stored indefinitely - Encoding: Involves complex processing and consolidation (e.g., organizing, elaborating) - Retrieval: Automatic and generally effort-free
Key Differences:
- Capacity: LTM has a much larger capacity than STM. - Duration: LTM retains information indefinitely, while STM holds information for a short time. - Encoding: LTM uses more elaborate encoding strategies than STM. - Retrieval: LTM retrieval is automatic, while STM retrieval requires conscious effort. - Nature of Information: STM typically holds recently encountered information or items that are actively being processed, while LTM stores more permanent or meaningful knowledge.
Example:
- Short term memory: Remembering your grocery list while you're in the store - Long term memory: Remembering your childhood best friend's name
Relationship between STM and LTM:
- STM is a gateway to LTM. Information must pass through STM before it can be stored in LTM. - STM can act as a buffer, holding information temporarily while LTM is processing it for long-term storage.