What are the primary components of common window glass?

The primary components of common window glass are silica (SiO2), sodium oxide (Na2O), and calcium oxide (CaO). Silica is the main ingredient and provides the structural framework for the glass. Sodium oxide is added to lower the melting point of silica, making it easier to manufacture the glass. Calcium oxide acts as a stabilizer and helps improve the material's durability.

By incorporating these three components, window glass can achieve the necessary transparency, strength, and thermal stability required for practical applications. The balance of these oxides is crucial in glassmaking, affecting not only the physical properties of the glass but also its ease of production and performance in various conditions. This combination is widely used for producing glass for residential and commercial windows.