The flash memory used for solid state drives (SSDs) and USB drives also stores bits in cells; however, when the power is turned off, the memory cells retain their content (see flash memory).

Meanwhile, the adaptive system, consisting of T and B cells, responds more slowly, targeting specific antigens and generating long-lived memory cells to enable a quicker, stronger secondary response.

Share on Pinterest Do all our cells have a type of memory, and if so, how might this influence health? We investigate. Design by MNT; Photography by Grant Faint/Getty Images & Ed Reschke/Getty Images.