Final answer:
Silica (silicon dioxide) is the most commonly mined nonmetal used in the production of silicate glasses, Portland cement, and lightweight concrete, all essential materials for various technological and construction applications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most commonly mined nonmetal used to make glass, bricks, and concrete is silica (silicon dioxide, or quartz). Silica is the primary component of sand and is extensively used for producing silicate glasses. These glasses are crucial in applications ranging from window panes and tableware to more technological uses in optics and optoelectronics. Silicates also play a vital role in manufacturing various construction materials such as Portland cement and lightweight concrete, where they improve durability and provide thermal protection compared to traditional materials like brick.
Furthermore, the glass making process often involves using soda-lime glass, a specific type of silicate glass composed of around 75% silicon dioxide (SiO₂), along with sodium oxide and calcium oxide. This combination creates a transparent, amorphous solid material that can also be colored and used in the artistic creation of stained-glass windows.