Final answer:
When mixing concrete, the reason for adding water to the cement is called hydration. Hydration is the chemical reaction that occurs between the water and cement, resulting in the formation of a solid material that hardens over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
When mixing concrete, the reason for adding water to the cement is called hydration. Hydration is the chemical reaction that occurs between the water and cement, resulting in the formation of a solid material that hardens over time.
During hydration, water molecules react with the cement particles, causing them to form a binder that binds the sand and gravel together. This binder, known as cement paste, provides the strength and bonding required for the concrete to set and harden.