What is the term for memory that has been stored for a prolonged period and can be retrieved later?

Long-term memory refers to the aspect of memory that is capable of storing information for extended periods, potentially from days to a lifetime. This type of memory allows for the retrieval of knowledge, experiences, and skills long after they have been initially encoded. It encompasses a vast array of information, including facts, events, and personal memories.

In contrast to short-term memory, which holds a limited amount of information for a brief period (generally seconds to minutes), long-term memory is more durable and has a much larger capacity. Working memory, while related to cognitive functions, specifically refers to the manipulation and active processing of information in the short term. Episodic memory is a subset of long-term memory that relates specifically to personal experiences and events, but it does not encompass the full scope of what long-term memory entails.

By understanding the characteristics of long-term memory, it becomes clear why this term is appropriate for describing memory that has been stored for prolonged periods and can be retrieved later.