Final answer:
The term for a thin coat of mortar used to bond ceramic tiles to a backing is Thin-set Mortar (option b). It offers a durable bond and is applied with a notched trowel to even the mortar layer under tiles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that refers to a thin coat of mortar used for bonding ceramic tile to a backing is b) Thin-set mortar. Thin-set mortar is a type of adhesive made from cement, fine sand, and a water retention compound that allows it to provide a strong bond between the tile and its backing without the need of a thicker layer of mortar which is sometimes referred to as thick-bed installation.
Thin-set mortar is preferred for its ease of use and the strong, durable hold it provides, making it ideal for setting tiles on floors, walls, and countertops.
Application of Thin-set Mortar
To apply thin-set mortar, a notched trowel is typically used to spread an even layer over the surface where tiles will be placed. The notches in the trowel create ridges in the mortar, which helps to ensure a uniform thickness of the adhesive under each tile. The tiles are then pressed into the wet mortar, allowing it to squeeze out evenly and create a solid bond once it dries.