What are the differences between Beer, Ale, and Hard Ciders?

Ingredients are part of it. Cider is most different, being fermented from apples, often with champagne yeast. Ale is a type of beer. It differs from lager in the strains of yeast used and the temperature for fermentation. There are a few exceptions, such as California Common. However all beers are made from grains, yeast, water and (almost always) hops.