What materials are commonly used in mortar mix?

The correct answer highlights the appropriate components that make up a mortar mix. Mortar is primarily used to bond masonry units such as bricks or stones together. The essential materials in this mix include hydrated lime, cement, water, and fine aggregate (typically sand).

Hydrated lime contributes to the workability and plasticity of the mortar, while cement provides strength and durability. Water is crucial for the hydration process that activates the cement and lime, allowing the mixture to cure and harden effectively. Fine aggregate, or sand, serves as the bulk material that holds the mix together and fills the voids, resulting in a cohesive and robust binding material.

Understanding this combination is vital for anyone involved in masonry work since the properties of the mortar can significantly affect the overall stability and longevity of a structure. The inclusion of gravel or large aggregates, as suggested in other options, is more characteristic of concrete mixes rather than mortar, thus highlighting why the other materials listed do not fit.