Which term refers to the very brief recording of sensory information?

Sensory memory refers to the very brief recording of sensory information that occurs immediately after an experience. This type of memory allows individuals to retain impressions of sensory information for a few seconds or less, providing a snapshot of stimuli from the environment. It acts as a buffer for stimuli received through the senses, giving the brain a chance to process this information before it moves into short-term or working memory.

Sensory memory is crucial for perception, enabling us to hold onto visual and auditory information momentarily to make sense of our surroundings. It supports experiences by allowing for the retention of impressions, such as the afterimage of a visual scene or the echo of a sound, which are essential for understanding and interacting with the environment.

The other types of memory, such as long-term memory and short-term memory, serve different functions and are characterized by their duration and capacity, making them distinct from the concept of sensory memory. Immediate memory is sometimes used interchangeably with short-term memory but typically focuses on the very recent recall of information. In contrast, sensory memory specifically pertains to the initial fleeting capture of sensory input.