Pavement is a layered structure constructed over soil to support vehicle loads. It has multiple layers - subgrade, sub-base, base, and surface course. Pavements are classified as flexible, rigid, or composite based on material properties. Flexible pavements are made of asphalt and deform under loads, while rigid pavements are made of concrete and resist deformation. Pavement design considers factors like traffic loads, material properties, environment, and failure criteria to determine layer thickness to support loads over the design life.