Which chemical compound in cement is responsible for its early strength?
- ATricalcium silicate (C₃S)Correct
- BDicalcium silicate (C₂S)
- CTricalcium aluminate (C₃A)
- DTetracalcium aluminoferrite (C₄AF)
Solution
Concept
Compounds of cement
Step-by-step solution
1. C₃S hydrates quickly and gives early strength. 2. C₂S gives later strength.
Explanation
Tricalcium silicate is responsible for early strength gain.
Why the other options are wrong
C₂S hydrates slowly; C₃A and C₄AF contribute little strength.
Shortcut
C₃S = early, C₂S = later.
Common mistake
Choosing C₃A.
Correct answer: A) Tricalcium silicate (C₃S)