The chemical change that hardens concrete is called what?

Prepare for the Glencoe Carpentry Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Equip yourself for success on your test day!

Multiple Choice

The chemical change that hardens concrete is called what?

Explanation:
The main idea is the chemical reaction that makes concrete harden. Hydration is that reaction—the cement reacts with water to form new compounds, notably calcium silicate hydrate, which binds the aggregates and gives concrete its strength. Curing is about keeping moisture in to allow hydration to continue, so it supports strength development but isn’t the chemical change itself. Setting refers to the initial change from a workable plastic state to a solid, which is related to hardening but the actual hardening comes from hydration. Polymerization does not occur in cement chemistry.

The main idea is the chemical reaction that makes concrete harden. Hydration is that reaction—the cement reacts with water to form new compounds, notably calcium silicate hydrate, which binds the aggregates and gives concrete its strength. Curing is about keeping moisture in to allow hydration to continue, so it supports strength development but isn’t the chemical change itself. Setting refers to the initial change from a workable plastic state to a solid, which is related to hardening but the actual hardening comes from hydration. Polymerization does not occur in cement chemistry.

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