Final answer:
The primary types of bacteria are classified as Gram-positive and Gram-negative based on differences in their cell walls and outer membranes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The vast majority of bacteria fall into two primary types classified as Gram-positive and Gram-negative. Gram-positive bacteria retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining method, while Gram-negative bacteria do not. This classification is based on differences in their cell walls and outer membranes.