What is the primary function of the hippocampus?

The primary function of the hippocampus is closely associated with the processing and storage of explicit memories, which include the information and experiences that can be consciously recalled. This region of the brain plays a pivotal role in the formation of new memories and is particularly important for learning facts and events—known as declarative memory. The hippocampus helps to transform short-term memories into long-term memories through various neural processes.

Understanding the hippocampus's function is crucial in various fields, including psychology and neuroscience, as it has implications for conditions like amnesia and Alzheimer's disease, where memory processing is notably affected. This attribute distinguishes the hippocampus from other brain structures that perform different functions, such as regulating physiological processes, connecting hemispheres, or myelinating axons. Thus, the correct response highlights the critical role of the hippocampus in memory and learning within the context of human development.