Neurobiology of Learning and Memory 3.3

Question 1

How does the brain acquire memory?

Answer 1

with each new concept you learn your brain is altering its synaptic connections in response

Question 2

Neuroplasticity

Answer 2

As our brains develop, neural connections form rapidly in response to stimuli

Question 3

Synaptic pruning

Answer 3

As we grow older, weak neural connections are broken while strong ones are bolstered, increasing the
efficiency of our brains’
ability to process information

Question 4

How is short-term memory maintained?

Answer 4

By forming a memory trace, if not rehearsed then it goes away

Question 5

Long-term potentiation

Answer 5

• strengthening of neural connections through repeated use
• as the stimulus is repeated, the stimulated neurons become more efficient at releasing their neurotransmitters and at the same time receptor sites on the other side of the synapse increase, increasing receptor density.

Question 6

Memory Pathway

Answer 6

Sensory Memory -> Consciousness -> Short term memory in hippocampus -> Cerebral Cortex