Answered

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4. Mortar was a combination of sand, lime and water
used as a bonding agent in ashlar masonry (a type
of construction that mostly uses rectangular blocks
of stone). It was very common in the ancient world.
What was the major contribution the Romans made
to the mortar recipe, and how did it improve
building? (Answer must be at least 2-3 complete
sentences.)
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5. The Romans exploited the opportunities afforded
to architects by the innovation of the true arch (as
opposed to a corbeled arch where stones are laid
so that they move slightly in toward the center as
they move higher). Explain the function of the true
arch.
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Answer :

GinnyAnswer
The major contribution the Romans made to the mortar recipe was the addition of volcanic ash known as pozzolana. This innovation significantly improved the durability and strength of the mortar, making it more resistant to water damage and allowing for the construction of larger and more stable structures. The volcanic ash acted as a hydraulic binding agent when mixed with lime and water, creating a mortar that could set underwater and hardened over time, enhancing the longevity of Roman architectural masterpieces like aqueducts, bridges, and buildings. The true arch, introduced by the Romans, revolutionized architectural design by distributing weight more efficiently. Unlike corbeled arches where stones are stacked in a staggered manner, true arches utilize keystone blocks at the apex of the arch to evenly distribute the load downwards and outwards along the curve of the arch. This design allows for greater spans to be covered with fewer materials, reducing the need for massive supporting walls and enabling the construction of grand structures such as aqueducts, amphitheaters, and basilicas with open interior spaces and impressive heights.

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