FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What is described as unlimited and permanent in the context of memory?

1. Short-term memory

2. Working memory

3. Long-term memory

4. Sensory memory

The correct answer is: Long-term memory

Long-term memory is characterized as unlimited and permanent, which distinguishes it from other types of memory. This type of memory allows individuals to retain information over extended periods, ranging from days to decades. Long-term memory has an enormous capacity, meaning that there is virtually no limit to the amount of information that can be stored. In contrast, short-term memory is temporary and can only hold a limited amount of information for a brief duration, while working memory is a more active process that involves manipulating information for immediate tasks and is also limited in both duration and capacity. Sensory memory holds brief impressions of sensory information and is only available for a fraction of a second. Therefore, long-term memory is the correct answer as it embodies the qualities of being both unlimited in capacity and permanent in nature.