Laptop memory is a critical component of a laptop computer that temporarily stores data and instructions. It provides fast and temporary storage for active programs and data, allowing the laptop to access and manipulate information quickly. The amount of memory in a laptop impacts its performance, with more RAM generally leading to smoother multitasking and faster program execution. Laptop memory is volatile, meaning it loses its data when the computer is powered off, making it distinct from long-term storage devices like hard drives or SSDs.