What is the main ingredient in glass?

The main ingredient in glass is silica, usually in the form of sand. Silica is combined with other materials, such as soda ash (sodium carbonate) and limestone (calcium carbonate), to lower its melting point and improve durability. The mixture is melted at high temperatures, around 1,700°C (3,092°F), until it becomes a molten liquid that can be shaped or moulded. Glass is used in a variety of applications, from windows and bottles to optical fibres and laboratory equipment. It is valued for its transparency, durability, and versatility.