Which materials are commonly mixed to create concrete?

The creation of concrete typically involves the mixing of cement, sand, and gravel. Cement acts as the binder that holds the mixture together, sand provides bulk and helps fill voids, while gravel contributes to the overall strength and durability of the concrete.

When water is added to this mix, chemical reactions occur, causing the components to bond together as the concrete cures. The combination of these materials results in a versatile construction material that can be molded into various forms.

While some alternatives to gravel, such as crushed stone, could be used, the traditional recipe involves these three components. Other options listed involve materials that either do not contribute to the core concrete mix or relate to different construction materials altogether. For instance, lime is used in some mortars and older masonry techniques, but it is not a standard ingredient in concrete production.