Which term describes the mental processes involved in retrieving information and problem-solving?

The term that best describes the mental processes involved in retrieving information and problem-solving is working memory. Working memory is a cognitive system that temporarily holds and manipulates information necessary for complex tasks such as reasoning, comprehension, and learning. It allows individuals to keep relevant information at the forefront of their minds while working through problems or retrieving facts, making it essential for active reasoning and thinking processes.

In contrast, long-term memory refers to the storage of information over extended periods, but it does not actively engage in the manipulation of information as needed in problem-solving tasks. Sensory memory represents only a fleeting record of sensory experiences before they are either transferred to short-term memory or lost, and short-term memory is limited in capacity and duration, focusing mainly on holding information temporarily rather than processing it actively. Working memory is thus uniquely positioned to facilitate active cognitive functions like retrieval and problem-solving.