Which of the following is the main ingredient of cement?
- ALimestone
- BSilica clay
- CGypsum
- DAsh
- ENone of the above/More than one of the above
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: (a) Limestone
Explanation
Limestone, chiefly calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), is the main raw ingredient in Portland cement manufacture.
It supplies calcium, which combines with silica, alumina and iron during firing in the kiln.
Gypsum is added only in a small amount at the end to control setting time, not as the main ingredient.