As Carol sat at her workstation and daydreamed about being at the beach, she could actually see in her mind the sand, the water, and the blue sky. Carol was creating a _____ of the beach.

• A. hallucination
• B. mirage
• C. mental image
• D. memory

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a 'mental image': A mental image is a representation in a person's mind of the physical world outside of that person. It is a mental visualization of objects, scenes, or events that are not currently being perceived by the senses.
2. Identify the context: Carol is at her workstation, not at the beach. She is imagining the beach, which means she is not experiencing it through her senses.
3. Differentiate between similar concepts: A hallucination is a perception in the absence of external stimulus that has qualities of real perception. A mirage is an optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions. Neither of these fit the scenario as Carol is not experiencing a sensory perception or an optical illusion.
4. Apply the concept: Since Carol is visualizing the beach in her mind without any sensory input, she is creating a mental image.
5. Conclude with the correct term: The correct term for what Carol is experiencing is a 'mental image', as she is mentally visualizing the beach scene.