Decay theory can explain forgetting from sensory memory and short-term memory but does not adequately explain forgetting from long-term memory.

Question

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Decay theory suggests that memory fades due to the mere passage of time and is more applicable to sensory and short-term memory, where information is lost relatively quickly if not rehearsed. However, it does not fully explain forgetting from long-term memory, where information can be retained for much longer periods and forgetting often results from interference or retrieval failures rather than just the passage of time.

Decay Theory Can Explain Forgetting from Sensory Memory and Short-Term