An RPC node, also known as a Remote Procedure Call node, is a component of a blockchain network that allows for communication and interaction with the blockchain using the Remote Procedure Call protocol. It acts as a bridge between clients or applications and the underlying blockchain, enabling users to access and interact with the blockchain's data and functionalities.

The RPC node serves as an interface that exposes a set of predefined APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that clients can use to query information or perform actions on the blockchain. Developers or users can make remote procedure calls to the RPC node, specifying the desired API method and parameters, to retrieve data such as account balances, transaction histories, or to execute transactions on the blockchain.

By using an RPC node, clients can perform various tasks without running a full node themselves. This is particularly useful for applications or services that require real-time access to blockchain data but do not need to store or validate the entire blockchain history. Instead, they can rely on the RPC node to fetch the necessary data and execute transactions on their behalf.

RPC nodes typically handle the processing of requests from clients and route them to the appropriate components of the blockchain network. These nodes maintain a connection with the blockchain and retrieve data from the blockchain's database to fulfill client requests. They can also transmit signed transactions to the network for inclusion in the blockchain, after performing necessary validations.