Trace Decay

Question 1

What is trace decay?

Answer 1

Memory fades automatically over time without rehearsal.

Question 2

Which memory store does trace decay mainly affect?

Answer 2

Short-term memory.

Question 3

Study supporting trace decay.

Answer 3

Peterson & Peterson (1959) – only 10% recall after 18 seconds.

Question 4

Strength of trace decay.

Answer 4

Supports MSM duration of STM.

Question 5

Weakness of trace decay.

Answer 5

Difficult to prove time alone causes forgetting.