Cement is a fine powder made from a mixture of minerals, primarily limestone and clay. When mixed with water, it forms a paste that hardens over time, making it a crucial ingredient in concrete and mortar. These materials are widely used in construction for building structures like homes, bridges, and roads. The process of making cement involves heating the raw materials in a kiln at high temperatures, which creates a substance called clinker. This clinker is then ground into the powder we know as cement. Its strength and durability make it essential for modern construction, helping to create lasting foundations and infrastructure.