Sensory memory is the initial stage of memory that captures brief impressions of sensory information from the environment. It allows individuals to retain information from their senses, such as sight, sound, and touch, for a very short period, typically less than a second for visual stimuli and a few seconds for auditory stimuli. This type of memory acts as a buffer, holding sensory details before they are processed further. The primary function of sensory memory is to provide a seamless experience of the world by retaining sensory input long enough for the brain to decide what to focus on. For example, when you see a flash of lightning, your sensory memory holds that image just long enough for you to recognize it before it fades away.