Isoprene units are the basic building blocks of many natural and synthetic polymers, such as rubber and certain types of plastics. Each isoprene unit consists of five carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms, with the chemical formula C5H8. These units can link together in various ways to form larger molecules, contributing to the diverse properties of materials like natural rubber and synthetic rubber. In nature, isoprene units are found in many biological compounds, including terpenes and steroids. These compounds play essential roles in plant metabolism and can also have significant ecological functions, such as attracting pollinators or deterring herbivores. The versatility of isoprene units makes them important in both biological and industrial contexts.