Concept:
The main clinker phases in Portland cement are \(C_3S\), \(C_2S\), \(C_3A\), and \(C_4AF\). Among these, \(C_3S\), also called alite, is mainly responsible for early strength.
Step 1: \(C_3S\) means tricalcium silicate.
\[
C_3S = 3CaO\cdot SiO_2
\]
Step 2: During hydration, \(C_3S\) reacts with water and forms calcium silicate hydrate gel.
\[
C_3S + H_2O \rightarrow C-S-H \text{ gel} + Ca(OH)_2
\]
Step 3: The \(C-S-H\) gel gives strength to cement paste.
Step 4: \(C_2S\) contributes to later strength, but \(C_3S\) is mainly responsible for early and major strength development.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
\[
\boxed{C_3S}
\]