Plant and Animal Cells vs Bacteria Cells

You'll find that animal cells and plant cells share quite a few similarities, but plants have some extra bits that help them survive as stationary organisms. Both types have a nucleus (the control centre), cytoplasm (the jelly-like substance filling the cell), a cell membrane (the boundary), mitochondria (the powerhouses), and ribosomes (protein factories).

Plant cells get three bonus features that animal cells don't have. The cell wall acts like a protective shell, giving plants their structure and defending against infections. Chloroplasts are the green organelles that capture sunlight for photosynthesis, which is why plants can make their own food. The large vacuole works like a storage tank, holding water and keeping the plant upright.

Bacteria cells are completely different beasts - they're much simpler and don't have a proper nucleus. Instead, their chromosomal DNA floats freely inside the cell, carrying all their genetic information. Many bacteria have a flagellum, which works like a tiny propeller to help them swim around.

Quick Tip: Remember that plant cells = animal cells + cell wall + chloroplasts + large vacuole. Bacteria cells are the odd ones out with no nucleus!