How does the phonological loop function in memory?

• A. It processes visual information.
• B. It allows individuals to hear words in their mind, such as when remembering a song.
• C. It stores chunks of information and links WM with perception and LTMs.
• D. It directly stores long-term memories.

Answer: (B)

The phonological loop is the verbal-auditory part of working memory that keeps speech-based information active through inner rehearsal. When you silently “hear” words or a tune in your head, you’re using this loop to maintain that auditory information. It works best when you repeat the sounds in your mind, refreshing them so they don’t fade away, which is why you can remember a song or a phone number for a short time.

This block isn’t about processing visual details—that’s the visuospatial sketchpad. It also isn’t describing storing long-term memories or how WM interacts with LTM in general; its specific role is to hold and refresh verbal/auditory information for short periods.