Final answer:
Exceptionally clear memories of emotionally significant events are called flashbulb memories, which are vivid recollections that are often retained with high detail and emotional clarity over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Exceptionally clear memories of emotionally significant events are referred to as flashbulb memories. These memories are like a snapshot that captures the details of a moment and the emotions felt during momentous or historic events. A common example often cited involves recollections of where people were and what they were doing during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Researchers Brown and Kulik first defined the term in 1977, but subsequent studies have expanded our understanding of this type of memory. Flashbulb memories can be triggered by both national tragedies and personal milestones, whether they are positive or negative. These memories remain vivid and detailed, often persisting with clarity over time.
The formation of flashbulb memories is closely associated with the arousal theory, which posits that strong emotional experiences lead to the secretion of neurotransmitters and hormones that enhance the memory encoding process. Hence, experiences that elicit a strong emotional response are more likely to be remembered than non-emotional events.