There are two major groups of cells, prokaryotic and eukaryotic.

As you can see from the graphic above, the organisms found in the kingdoms Archaebacteria and Eubacteria have prokaryotic cells. The organisms found in the other four kingdoms have eukaryotic cells.

The main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is where the genetic material is stored. In eukaryotic cells, such as the cells of a human, genetic material is found inside an enclosed nucleus.

What exactly is genetic material? When you hear the phrase, “genetic material,” you probably think of terms such as chromosomes, DNA, and genes. What do these terms mean and how are the related?

Click on the Next button to view this animation about chromosomes, DNA, and genes.