What distinguishes acquisition from extinction in learning?

Acquisition and extinction are fundamental concepts in learning, particularly in the context of classical and operant conditioning. The correct choice highlights the distinct processes involved in both concepts.

Acquisition refers to the phase where an association between a stimulus and a response is formed or strengthened, usually through reinforcement. This means that during the acquisition phase, behaviors are increased or learned by the presence of positive outcomes, rewards, or reinforcements that encourage the desired behavior to continue.

On the other hand, extinction occurs when the reinforcement that has been paired with a behavior is removed or reduced, leading to a decrease in that behavior over time. In a typical scenario of operant conditioning, for example, if a behavior is no longer followed by a reinforcer, the likelihood of that behavior being repeated diminishes, demonstrating the process of extinction.

This distinction clarifies why the chosen answer correctly emphasizes the role of reinforcement in acquisition and its absence during the extinction process. The other options do not accurately capture the fundamental differences between acquisition and extinction processes in learning.