Calcium oxide (quicklime) reacts vigorously with liquid water. Which product forms, and what is the reaction type?

Core Concept

Calcium oxide and water unite into the single compound calcium hydroxide, matching the many-reactants-one-product pattern that defines synthesis. Metal oxides joining with water to produce hydroxides follow this scheme broadly, and the large heat release makes slaking quicklime a memorable demonstration. One product assembled from two reactants settles the classification on its own.