Question

Your memory of how to ride a bicycle is contained in your ___________ memory. A. declarative B. procedural C. structural D. episodic

Short answer

A. Declarative memory B. Procedural memory C. Structural memory D. Episodic memory Answer: B. Procedural memory

Step-by-step solution

Recall the definitions of different memory types.

Declarative memory stores factual information and includes episodic and semantic memory. Procedural memory is responsible for remembering how to perform skills and habits. Structural memory isn't a relevant memory category in this context. Finally, episodic memory stores personal experiences and events.

Match the memory type with the skill of riding a bicycle.

We need to identify which memory type is responsible for remembering how to perform a skill or task. In this case, riding a bicycle is a motor skill, and it is stored in procedural memory.

Select the correct answer.

The correct answer is B. Procedural memory, as it is the type of memory responsible for remembering how to perform various skills and tasks, such as riding a bicycle.

Key concepts

Declarative Memory

Declarative memory is the type of memory that allows us to consciously recall things. It helps us bring facts and knowledge into our awareness when needed. This form of memory is like having a mental database of information.
There are two subtypes of declarative memory:

• Semantic Memory: Deals with general world knowledge, meanings of words, facts, and concepts not tied to personal experiences. For example, knowing that Paris is the capital of France is part of semantic memory.
• Episodic Memory: Involves personal experiences and events in specific contexts and times. For instance, remembering your last birthday party falls under episodic memory.

These subtypes help us store different kinds of information, from factual knowledge to personal experiences, contributing to our understanding of the world.

Episodic Memory

Episodic memory is responsible for our ability to recall personal experiences and specific events from our past. It includes details like time, place, emotions, and other contextual information about when and where the event occurred.
This type of memory is often linked to our sense of self and time, allowing us to mentally travel back to relive those moments.

• Imagine you can revisit a day when you were on a vacation at the beach. You remember the warmth of the sun, the sound of waves, and the happiness you felt. This rich tapestry of memory is thanks to episodic memory.
• The amazing ability to reminiscence about life's episodes plays a significant role in shaping our abilities to plan, reflect, and even predict future scenarios based on past experiences.

Episodic memory, therefore, is essential for personal history and identity, acting as a mental diary of our lives.

Semantic Memory

Semantic memory involves storing information about the world that is not tied to specific personal experiences. It is like a library of general knowledge that we continue to expand throughout our lives.
This memory stores:

• Concepts: These are broad ideas or categories, like the concept of gravity or photosynthesis.
• Facts: Information such as the capital cities of countries or historical dates.
• Meanings: This includes definitions of words and language understanding.

Semantic memory allows us to understand and use language, solve problems, and make sense of the world around us without needing to tie this information to a particular event or episode from our personal past. It's crucial for everyday functioning and learning, as we continually add new information over time, enhancing our ability to communicate and comprehend new concepts.