Ledger
An immutable, distributed digital record of transactions maintained across network nodes.
What is Ledger?
A blockchain ledger is a decentralized database appending timestamped blocks via consensus, ensuring tamper-proof history—e.g., Bitcoin’s 900 GB chain records 1 billion+ transactions since 2009. Each block (1-4 MB) links via hashes, with Merkle trees verifying contents efficiently.
Distributed across nodes, it uses P2P replication for fault tolerance, contrasting centralized ledgers like Visa’s SQL databases prone to single-point failures. Consensus like PoW (Bitcoin: 144 blocks/day) or PoS (Ethereum: 32 slots/epoch) prevents double-spends.
Related Terms
Wrapped Tokens
Wrapped tokens are digital assets on one blockchain that represent a 1:1 pegged equivalent of an asset from another blockchain or the same chain, enabling cross-chain compatibility or enhanced functionality.
EVM-Compatible Chain
A blockchain network designed to execute Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) bytecode, enabling direct compatibility with Ethereum smart contracts and tools.
e-CNY
China’s digital yuan, a CBDC issued by the People’s Bank of China.
Gas Price
The amount of Ether (ETH) a user is willing to pay per unit of gas for a transaction on Ethereum.
Dispersed Information (Prediction Market)
Knowledge scattered across individuals that prediction markets aggregate into a cohesive forecast.
Embedded Call Option
A call option integrated into a security, like converts, allowing conversion to equity.