Which type of memory is first encountered by a stimulus, such as a smell?

Sensory memory is indeed the first type of memory that is encountered by a stimulus, such as a smell. It acts as a brief storage system that holds information in its raw form for a very short duration, typically just a few seconds. This type of memory allows individuals to perceive and process sensory information before it is either further analyzed or ignored.

In the case of olfactory stimuli, when you encounter a smell, it is processed by sensory memory, which captures the initial experience of the smell without any conscious effort or deeper cognitive processing. This immediate retention allows individuals to recognize and react to the stimulus almost instantly.

In contrast, short-term memory involves the storage of information that is consciously attended to and can hold information for a slightly longer period, around 20 to 30 seconds. Long-term memory refers to the storage of information over extended periods, where it can be coded, consolidated, and retrieved for use later on. Working memory, on the other hand, is an active processing system that enables manipulation of information held in short-term memory for tasks such as reasoning and comprehension.

Thus, sensory memory is foundational because it provides the first impression of a sensory stimulus, laying the groundwork for further cognitive processing.