Cement is a fine powder made from a mixture of minerals, primarily limestone and clay, which, when mixed with water, forms a paste that hardens over time. It is a key ingredient in concrete and mortar, widely used in construction for building structures, roads, and bridges. There are different types of cement, including Portland cement, which is the most common, and blended cements, which incorporate other materials to enhance performance. The production of cement involves heating the raw materials in a kiln, resulting in a chemical reaction that creates clinker, which is then ground into the final product.