Echoic memory and iconic memory are both types of sensory memory, but they handle different types of information. Iconic memory is a type of visual sensory memory that lasts for a very brief period, typically around 0.5 to 1 second. Echoic memory, on the other hand, is a type of auditory sensory memory and it lasts for a bit longer, usually in the range of 3 to 4 seconds.
Let's break down the options based on this information:
- Option a) about three to five seconds longer.
- This suggests that echoic memory lasts significantly longer than iconic memory, but it is a bit of an overestimation based on our understanding of sensory memory durations.
- Option b) about two to four seconds longer.
- This aligns well with our knowledge, considering iconic memory typically lasts less than a second and echoic memory lasts about 3 to 4 seconds.
- Option c) about two to four seconds shorter.
- This is contrary to our understanding because echoic memory lasts longer, not shorter, than iconic memory.
- Option d) about the same amount of time.
- This is also incorrect since there is a clear difference in durations between the two types of sensory memory.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
b) about two to four seconds longer.
