What are the components of mortar?

• A. Cement, aggregate, water, gravel
• B. Cement, lime, sand, water
• C. Lime, cement, gypsum, water
• D. Sand, cement, plastic, air

Answer: (B)

Mortar is a binding mix used to join masonry units, made from a cementitious binder, a fine aggregate, and water. The standard modern mortar combines cement, lime, sand, and water. The cement provides early strength and sets as it hydrates; lime adds plasticity and workability, improves bonding to bricks or blocks, and helps the mix accommodate slight movements without cracking; sand supplies the fine aggregate that fills joints, provides bulk, and reduces shrinkage. Water activates the cement and lime chemistry and gives the right workable consistency. The other options don’t fit because gravel is a coarse aggregate used in concrete rather than mortar, gypsum isn’t a typical primary binder in masonry mortars, and the idea of “plastic” as a separate ingredient isn’t a proper component of mortar.