Glossary · Ledger

Blockchain.

An append-only sequence of blocks, each linking to the previous one by hash.

In depth

A blockchain is a data structure that orders transactions over time: each block contains a header that includes the hash of the previous block, so any tampering would break every following hash. Cardano’s chain is produced by Ouroboros consensus.

Example

When you "wait for a confirmation", you’re waiting for the blockchain to grow a few blocks past the one containing your transaction.

Next on this path

  1. Block An ordered batch of transactions appended to the chain by the slot leader.
  2. Hash A short, fixed-size fingerprint of arbitrary data that changes drastically with any input change.