What is it?

The blockchain, as a decentralized ledger, was first conceptualized by Satoshi Nakamoto in 2008. He would later go on to use that design for Bitcoin. Many other cryptocurrencies would soon follow. Two notable ones are Ethereum co-founded Vitalk Buterin and Solana lead founded Anatoly Yakovenko. A blockchain is made out of blocks that carries data, a hash of itself, and a hash of the previous box. The ledger is distributed so that anyone can freely view it.

What are the benefits of blockchain?

bank
Blockchain technology allows us to have a decentralized currency
hacker
Strong encryption algorithm protecting the data
counterfeiting
Crytocurrencies are immune to counterfeiting because every single block in the chain would need to be tampered with.

Used in

Blockchain allows payment in cryptocurrencies to be fast and safe.


Using blockchain as a database allows things like foreign transactions to be signed electronically. It also makes tracing the transaction easier.


Another type of datab storage blockchain can be used for is protecting intellectual property. A prime example of this idea beings used is in NFTs.


Many schools and other certifying associations are issuing certificates through the blockchain. This prevents fraud and makes verifying applications faster.


They are programs on the blockchain that runs when its condition are met. One usage of smart contracts is to execute an agreement without any outside involvement. This ensures both side get what they want without losing time.

Cryptocurrencies

(Market cap of 2023 according to Forbes)

1. Bitcoin

- Market Cap: $535.7 billion

2. Ethereum

- Market Cap: $189.7 billion

3. Tether (USDT)

- Market Cap: $83.5 billion

Quiz

1. Who was the creator/inventor of Bitcoin? Select one

2. Does a block in the blockchain contain the data from the previous block? Select one

3. What makes cryptocurrencies immune to counterfeiting? Select one