What is the purpose of CaO in Oakwood reaction In the Oakwood reaction, i.e.
$$\ce{RCOOH -&gt;[NaOH + CaO] RH + Na2CO3},$$
is there any role or importance of $\ce{CaO}$, because it doesn't appear to be anywhere in the product.
Sodium hydroxide plus calcium oxide forms soda lime. Its use is mainly down to handling covenience as it is far less hygroscopic than powdered sodium hydroxide.