The Neural Basis of Memory

Memory relies on complex interactions in the brain, primarily within structures called the hippocampus and the cerebral cortex. When we experience something, neurons form connections, or synapses, strengthening certain pathways. This process, called synaptic plasticity, allows information to be stored over time. Different types of memory, like short-term and long-term, involve various brain regions and mechanisms. Neural networks communicate through electrical signals, creating a dynamic system that encodes, consolidates, and retrieves memories. In essence, memory is the brain’s ability to modify its neural connections in response to experiences, enabling learning and recall.