Final answer:
The hippocampus, located in the temporal lobe, is the brain structure associated with the formation of memories. It plays a vital role in short-term and long-term memory formation and retrieval. The hippocampus works in conjunction with other structures in the limbic system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The brain structure associated with the formation of memories is the hippocampus. Located in the temporal lobe, the hippocampus is responsible for the consolidation of new memories and the retrieval of stored memories. It plays a crucial role in both short-term and long-term memory formation.
An example of the hippocampus's role in memory formation is demonstrated in studies of patients with damage to this brain region. These patients often experience difficulty in forming new memories, a condition known as anterograde amnesia. In contrast, memories formed before the occurrence of the damage, known as retrograde memories, remain intact.
The hippocampus works together with other brain structures, such as the medial temporal lobe and the amygdala, to facilitate memory formation and retrieval. These structures form a network known as the limbic system, which is involved in emotional processing and memory consolidation.
Learn more about Hippocampus