Which statement accurately describes fluid intelligence?

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Study for the University of Central Florida (UCF) DEP2004 Developmental Psychology Final Exam. Get ready with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Excel in understanding developmental stages and theories!

Fluid intelligence refers to the ability to reason and solve new problems independently of previously acquired knowledge. It is characterized by qualities such as adaptability, speed, and the capacity to think abstractly. Individuals demonstrating fluid intelligence can process information rapidly, make connections quickly, and approach new situations with flexibility. This type of intelligence is often tested through tasks requiring logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and the ability to draw inferences from limited information.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the nature of fluid intelligence. The idea of rigidity and slowness implies a lack of adaptability, which contrasts with the inherent characteristics of fluid intelligence. Likewise, accumulated knowledge is more aligned with crystallized intelligence, which builds upon past learning and experiences. Lastly, while social context may affect cognitive processes, fluid intelligence itself is defined by its independence from specific experiences or the social environment.