Introduction
Cryptocurrency has taken the world by storm, with Bitcoin being the most well-known digital currency. However, there are many other cryptocurrencies that are gaining in popularity, such as Ethereum. In this article, we will explore what Ethereum is and how it differs from other cryptocurrencies.
What is Ethereum?
Ethereum is a blockchain-based platform that enables the creation of secure digital ledgers and the use of cryptocurrency, ether (ETH). It was founded in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and Gavin Wood [3]. Ethereum is decentralized, meaning that it is not controlled by a central authority or government. Instead, it operates on a peer-to-peer network of computers that work together to validate transactions and maintain the integrity of the ledger.
The Technology Behind Ethereum
Ethereum uses blockchain technology, which is a decentralized, distributed ledger that records transactions across many computers. Each block in the chain contains a timestamp and a link to the previous block, making it virtually impossible to alter the data contained within it [1]. Ethereum's blockchain technology allows for the creation of "smart contracts," which are self-executing contracts that automatically enforce the terms of an agreement. This feature has many potential applications, such as in supply chain management or in the creation of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) [2].
What is Ether (ETH)?
Ether (ETH) is the cryptocurrency that powers the Ethereum platform. It is used to pay for transactions on the network, as well as to incentivize network participants to validate transactions and maintain the integrity of the ledger. Ether is also used as a store of value, much like Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies [1].
How is Ethereum Different from Other Cryptocurrencies?
Ethereum differs from other cryptocurrencies in several ways. First, it was specifically designed to be more than just a digital currency. Instead, it was designed to be a platform that enables the creation of decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts [3]. Second, Ethereum uses a different mining algorithm than Bitcoin, which makes it more resistant to ASIC mining and more accessible to everyday users [1]. Finally, Ethereum has a faster block time than Bitcoin, which means that transactions can be processed more quickly [2].
FAQ
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What is Ethereum?
Ethereum is a blockchain-based platform best known for its cryptocurrency, ether (ETH). The blockchain technology that powers Ethereum enables secure digital ledgers to be publicly created.
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Who founded Ethereum?
Ethereum was founded by Vitalik Buterin and Gavin Wood in 2015.
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What is the market capitalization of Ethereum?
Today, the market capitalization of Ethereum is approximately $200 billion USD. This is based on the live price of Ethereum at $1,635.59 USD, with a 24-hour trading volume of $6.06 billion USD [4].
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How can Ethereum be used?
Ethereum is a technology for building apps and organizations, holding assets, transacting and communicating without being controlled by a central authority. It allows users to keep control of their own data and what is being shared.
Written by CoinCola Team
2023.02.28