AP Psychology Practice Test

What is believed to be a neural basis for learning and memory, characterized by an increase in a synapse's firing potential after brief, rapid stimulation?

1. Chunking

2. Mnemonics

3. Echoic Memory

4. Long-term Potentiation (LPT)

The correct answer is: Long-term Potentiation (LPT)

The correct answer is indeed Long-term Potentiation (LTP). LTP is a phenomenon that occurs at synapses and is widely regarded as a crucial process for learning and memory formation. When two neurons are repeatedly activated together, the synapse between them becomes stronger, resulting in an increased ability for synaptic transmission. This means that subsequent stimulation of the presynaptic neuron leads to a greater response in the postsynaptic neuron, which is essential for encoding memories. LTP provides a physiological basis for how experiences can lead to lasting changes in the brain, making it easier for the brain to retrieve information based on frequently used pathways. This synaptic strengthening is thought to underlie many forms of learning, from simple associative learning to more complex cognitive tasks. The other options, while related to memory and learning in various capacities, do not specifically address the neural mechanisms related to synaptic changes that support learning and memory. Chunking refers to a memory strategy that helps in organizing information, mnemonics are tools to aid memory retention, and echoic memory relates to a brief retention of auditory information, but none of these involve the physiological changes at the synaptic level synonymous with Long-term Potentiation.