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13 changes: 5 additions & 8 deletions get-started/blockchain-basics/what-is-a-blockchain.md
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# What is a Blockchain

A blockchain is a digital ledger that records and stores data in a decentralized manner. It is essentially a database that is managed by a network of computers, rather than a single central authority. Each block in the chain contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, along with transaction data, and a timestamp. This creates a permanent and unalterable record of all transactions, making it very difficult to tamper with or manipulate the data.
A blockchain is a digital ledger that records and stores data in a decentralized manner. Essentially, it is a database managed by a network of computers, not a single central authority. Each block in the chain contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, along with transaction data, and a timestamp. This ensures a permanent and unalterable record of all transactions, significantly hindering any data tampering or manipulation.

One of the key features of a blockchain is its immutability, which means that once a transaction is recorded on the blockchain, it cannot be changed or deleted. This makes it a highly secure and transparent system, which is why it has become increasingly popular in the financial industry and beyond.
A key feature of blockchain is its immutability, meaning once a transaction is recorded, it cannot be altered or deleted. This makes it a highly secure and transparent system, which is why it has become increasingly popular in the financial industry and beyond.

Blockchains are used for a variety of purposes, including financial transactions, supply chain management, and identity verification. They can also be used to create smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement written into code on the blockchain.

Transactions on the network are processed, finalized, and recorded into groups called blocks by Validators . When a block is created, it makes a permanent record of all the transactions and state of the network. A cryptographic hash is then created to identify that block and can be used to verify its data.

The chain aspect comes from each block being connected to each other. When a new block is created, data from the previous block is verified through its cryptographic hash, connecting the new block to the previous. This process continues as each block is created, moving the state of the network forward one block at a time.

The blockchain is operated by a global network of Validator nodes. These nodes are computers that, transact data, value, and create new blocks. When a new block is created, nodes ensure that data across the network is aligned and verifies the history from the previous block by getting consensus.

Transactions on the network are processed, finalized, and recorded into groups called blocks. Upon creation, a block permanently records all the submitted transactions and the network's current state. A blockchain’s state refers to the status of recorded data such as balances, smart contracts, and other data on the blockchain at any given time. A cryptographic hash is then created to identify that block and can be used to verify its data, and or state, at the time of that block's creation.

The 'chain' aspect arises from the connection between blocks. When a new block is created, data from the previous block is verified through its cryptographic hash, connecting the new block to the previous block. This process continues as each block is created, moving the state of the network forward one block at a time.

The blockchain is operated by a global network of validator nodes. These nodes are computers that transact data, exchange value, and create new blocks, as described above. When a new block is created, validator nodes ensure data across the network is aligned, and they verify the history from the previous block by achieving consensus with other validator nodes.
8 changes: 6 additions & 2 deletions get-started/blockchain-basics/what-is-a-dapp.md
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# What is a dApp

An application on the blockchain is a decentralized application (dApp) that utilizes smart contracts to automate and execute transactions without the need for a central authority. The data and transactions are recorded on the blockchain, which provides transparency and security. Examples of blockchain applications include decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, supply chain management systems, and voting systems.
Decentralized applications, commonly referred to as dApps, are applications that run on a decentralized blockchain network. With blockchain running on a network of nodes instead of centralized servers, applications built on blockchain operate in a decentralized environment. This allows them to be accessible by participants on the network, provides transparency, and ensures that data and transactions are not owned by one governing authority.

Blockchain applications have the potential to revolutionize the finance industry by enabling faster, more secure, and more transparent transactions. Decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, for example, allow for peer-to-peer lending, borrowing, and trading of digital assets, without the need for intermediaries such as banks. This can reduce costs and increase access to financial services for individuals and businesses around the world.
A dApp’s functionality leverages a technology deployed on a blockchain called smart contracts. Smart contracts are essentially collections of code that execute functions and transactions on the blockchain. As more features and capabilities are developed to operate the application, smart contracts are created to execute those functions. Ultimately, a dApp operates through a collection of smart contracts. A smart contract is a program of code and data that details the terms of a trusted agreement between parties. The smart contract is immutable, deployed to the blockchain, does not require an intermediary, and can be anonymous.

The collection of smart contracts developed to run a dApp operates on the back end of the application. So, how does one use a dApp? Users can interact with the back end through a front end user interface. When you are using an application online or on your phone, you are interacting with the front end. The front end is for interaction, while the back end executes functions and capabilities.

Not all dApps necessarily need a front end user interface. An application simply executes a function or a need – it does not require user interaction. Even a single smart contract can be considered an application if it fulfills a need. In a blockchain ecosystem, developers can create smart contracts to cooperate and perform a system of functions. This cooperation can create an application that operates as the backend of an application or lives entirely on the blockchain.



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