Spatial memory
Spatial Memory
Spatial memory (/ˈspeɪʃəl ˈmɛməri/) is a subcategory of memory that allows individuals to remember and navigate different locations. The term is derived from the Latin words 'spatium' meaning 'space' and 'memoria' meaning 'memory'.
Definition
Spatial memory is a cognitive process that enables a person to remember different locations as well as spatial relations between objects. This form of memory is used by animals and humans to remember where they are in space, where they have been, and how to navigate to new locations.
Types of Spatial Memory
There are two main types of spatial memory: egocentric and allocentric.
- Egocentric spatial memory involves remembering the location of objects in relation to the self. This type of memory is used when navigating from a first-person perspective.
- Allocentric spatial memory involves remembering the location of objects in relation to other objects. This type of memory is used when navigating from a third-person perspective.
Related Terms
- Cognitive map: A mental representation of the layout of one's environment. It is a key component of spatial memory as it allows for the organization and recall of spatial information.
- Place cells: Neurons in the hippocampus that become active when an animal enters a particular place in its environment. They play a crucial role in spatial memory.
- Grid cells: Neurons in the entorhinal cortex that fire at regular intervals as an animal moves through space, creating a grid-like pattern. They are thought to support spatial navigation and memory.
- Hippocampus: A region of the brain that is associated with memory, particularly spatial memory.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Spatial memory
- Wikipedia's article - Spatial memory
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