North Carolina General Contractors Practice Exam 2026 - Free Contractors Practice Questions and Study Guide

The reasoning behind identifying silt as not being an ingredient in concrete lies in the typical composition of concrete itself. Concrete is primarily made of cement, sand, aggregate, and water. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the properties and overall strength of concrete.

Cement acts as the binding agent that holds the mixture together, while sand and aggregate provide the necessary bulk and stability. Water is essential for the hydration process, allowing the cement to harden and develop strength.

Silt, on the other hand, is finer than sand and is generally not included in the mixture for structural concrete. Excessive amounts of silt can negatively affect the workability and durability of concrete, leading to issues such as increased shrinkage and cracking. Therefore, while silt can be present in some soils, it is not a standard ingredient in concrete formulations.