Final answer:
A triterpene consists of six isoprene units and contains a total of 30 carbon atoms. These units are the building blocks for various complex structures including steroids.
Step-by-step explanation:
A triterpene is a type of terpenoid that is synthesized from isoprene precursors. Specifically, a triterpene is composed of six isoprenes which, when joined together, form a compound with 30 carbons. Terpene and terpenoids can include a number of different structures, such as steroids, which are derived from triterpene squalene. The isoprene unit has a five-carbon skeleton, and in the case of triterpene, these units are linked in a head-to-tail manner to create a larger structure.