Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 29, 2025

Automatic Detection of Highly Organized Theta Oscillations in the Murine EEG
Published on: March 10, 2017
Theta Oscillations in Human Memory
Nora A Herweg1, Ethan A Solomon1, Michael J Kahana1
1Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Abstract:
Theta frequency (4-8 Hz) fluctuations of the local field potential have long been implicated in learning and memory. Human studies of episodic memory, however, have provided mixed evidence for theta's role in successful learning and remembering. Re-evaluating these conflicting findings leads us to conclude that: (i) successful memory is associated both with increased narrow-band theta oscillations and a broad-band tilt of the power spectrum; (ii) theta oscillations specifically support associative memory, whereas the spectral tilt reflects a general index of activation; and (iii) different cognitive contrasts (generalized versus specific to memory), recording techniques (invasive versus noninvasive), and referencing schemes (local versus global) alter the balance between the two phenomena to make one or the other more easily detectable.
Related Concept Videos
Oscillations about an Equilibrium Position
Brain Waves
Role of Hippocampus in Memory
Long-Term Memory
Long-term memory can be categorized into two primary types: explicit and implicit memory. Explicit memory, also known as declarative memory, involves the conscious recollection of information that we deliberately try to remember, recall, and articulate. This type of memory encompasses specific facts, events, and...
Understanding Memory
Forced Oscillations

