Understanding Cell Types
You'll encounter two major types of cells in biology: prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells. The key difference is simple - prokaryotic cells (found in bacteria) don't have a nucleus, whilst eukaryotic cells (found in plants and animals) do have one.
Think of the nucleus as the cell's control centre. Animal cells are eukaryotic and contain five main features: cytoplasm, nucleus, cell membrane, mitochondria, and ribosomes.
Plant cells are also eukaryotic but have three extra features that animal cells don't: a cell wall, permanent vacuole, and chloroplasts. These extra parts help plants do things animals can't, like make their own food!
Quick Tip: Remember that plant cells have everything animal cells have, plus three extra features - they're like animal cells with bonus equipment!