Memories, or recollections, are mental representations of past experiences. They can be formed from personal experiences, events, or information learned over time. Memories help individuals recall important moments, learn from past actions, and shape their identity. The process of memory involves encoding, storing, and retrieving information. Different types of memories include short-term memory, which holds information temporarily, and long-term memory, which stores information for extended periods. Factors such as emotions and context can influence how memories are formed and recalled.