What characterizes long-term memory in terms of capacity?

Long-term memory is characterized by its virtually unlimited capacity. Unlike short-term memory, which can hold a limited amount of information for a brief period, long-term memory can store vast amounts of information indefinitely. This capacity allows individuals to retain knowledge, experiences, and skills over extended periods, facilitating learning and the development of complex understanding.

The principle of unlimited capacity means that people can continue to encode new information without necessarily discarding previous knowledge, although retrieval may sometimes be influenced by factors such as interference or the organization of memories. Hence, the notion of long-term memory being unlimited underscores its crucial role in human cognition, learning, and everyday functioning.