Understand the Ethereum Network: why double lots in Bitcoin
As we deepen the complexities of the Blockchain networks, a question has long baffled enthusiastic and developers equally: why each transaction transmitted to the Bitcoin network appears twice? To respond to this consultation, we first understand the underlying principles behind Ethereum’s unique architecture.
The bitcoin network: a brief description
Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency that uses a network of equal to equal to facilitate transactions. The network is maintained by a network of “miners” volunteers who solve complex mathematical puzzles to validate incoming transactions and add them to the block chain. Each block, which contains multiple transactions, is transmitted to the network, and once verified, merges into the main block chain.
Ethereum: a decentralized platform with personalized architecture
Ethereum, on the other hand, is a programmable blockchain platform that allows developers to create decentralized applications (DAPP) using their native cryptocurrency, ether. Ethereum’s architecture is based on a different set of principles than Bitcoin’s, which we will explore below.
The double lots debate
So why each transaction transmitted in the Bitcoin Network appears twice? The answer is found in the way in which the Ethereum work test algorithm (Pow), known as Ethash, validates transactions. In Bitcoin, miners compete to solve complex mathematical puzzles, which requires significant computational power and energy consumption.
To compensate for high computational requirements, Ethereum implemented a double lot mechanism. Instead of transmitting each transaction once and then verifying it, each transaction is transmitted twice:
- Initial Broadcast : The first time a network transaction appears, it is transmitted as it is, without any verification.
- Verification
: Upon receiving the initial transmission, the miners verify the transactions using the Ethereum virtual machine (EVM). If they confirm that the transactions are valid and are in line with the blockchain rules, they update the EVM to mark the block as “confirmed”.
- Second transmission
: Once a block is confirmed, it is transmitted again on the network without any additional verification.
This double lot reducing the energy required for mining, which causes Ethereum to be more efficient in the energy than Bitcoin. However, this also means that each transaction can be transmitted twice before being verified and included in the block chain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the double lot mechanism used by Ethereum to handle high frequency transactions is a deliberate design option aimed at optimizing network performance and at the same time guarantee the integrity of the block chain. While it may seem inefficient compared to the bitcoin batch approach, the benefits of reduced energy consumption and improved scalability make Ethereum an attractive alternative for decentralized applications.
As we continue to explore the world of blockchain networks, understanding these unique design decisions can help us better appreciate the complexities and compensation involved in the construction of safe, efficient and scalable distributed systems.
Leave a Reply