What is the term for a photographic or picture-image memory that lasts only a few tenths of a second?

The term for a photographic or picture-image memory that lasts only a few tenths of a second is known as iconic memory. Iconic memory is a type of sensory memory that specifically pertains to visual information. It captures and holds images briefly, allowing us to perceive and process visual stimuli in our environment before it fades away rapidly, typically within half a second. This allows our brains to have a brief snapshot of what we see, which can be crucial for tasks such as reading or recognizing faces.

Long-term memory refers to the system for storing information over extended periods, often enabling recall of past experiences or learned information. Functional fixedness is a cognitive bias that limits a person’s ability to use an object only in the way it is traditionally used, interfering with problem-solving and creativity. Implicit memory involves memories that are not consciously recalled but influence behaviors and skills, such as riding a bike or playing an instrument. These concepts are distinct from iconic memory and describe different aspects of human cognitive function.