Final answer:
Organic compound 'X' is a macromolecule made of monomeric units joined by dehydration synthesis, where water is removed. Carbon's four-bond capacity makes it the backbone of these vital organic compounds, which are essential for life and distinct from simpler inorganic compounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Organic Compounds in Cells
The organic compound 'X', which constitutes 5 - 7% of the total cellular mass in living organisms, is typically a type of macromolecule. Macromolecules, such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids, are composed of monomeric units. These monomers are small molecules that join together through a process known as dehydration synthesis to form larger molecules, or polymers. During dehydration synthesis, a water molecule is removed to create a new bond between two monomers. Conversely, polymers can be broken down into monomers through hydrolysis, where water is added.
Macromolecules are essential to life, functioning in various roles such as structural components, enzyme catalysts, and information carriers. The carbon atom plays a central role in the formation of macromolecules due to its ability to form up to four covalent bonds, allowing for a great diversity of compounds. Organic compounds differ from inorganic compounds in that they contain carbon bonded to hydrogen and often include other elements like oxygen and nitrogen.