Final answer:
The molecular formula given is likely that of an unsaturated fatty acid, which is a lipid monomer. Lipid monomers such as fatty acids can join together to form larger molecules like triglycerides through dehydration synthesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The molecular formula CH3(CH2)4CH=CH=CH2-CH=CH-(CH2)7CHHO provided in the student's question likely represents a lipid monomer, more specifically a fatty acid. It contains a long hydrocarbon chain and a terminal carboxylic acid group (COOH). The presence of double bonds indicates that it is an unsaturated fatty acid, which is a type of lipid. The formation of lipid polymers involves the joining of these monomers in a dehydration synthesis reaction, where water is removed, forming a larger molecule.
Monomers are the smallest units that can join together to form polymers. For lipids, the monomers are fatty acids like the one given in the molecular formula. These fatty acids can join to form triglycerides, which are types of lipids consisting of three fatty acid chains attached to a glycerol backbone. This process is a key part of the metabolism and storage of energy within the body.