Block

What is Block?

A block is a digital container that stores a batch of transactions on a blockchain. It is the fundamental building block of the distributed ledger.

How does Block work?

1. Pending transactions are collected from the network's "mempool."
2. A miner or validator bundles these transactions together into a block.
3. The block includes a "header" containing metadata and a link to the previous block's hash.
4. Once the block is "mined" or "validated," it is broadcast to all other nodes.
5. Every node verifies the block and adds it to their local copy of the chain.

Why does Block matter?

Blocks provide the structure for permanent, immutable record-keeping. By linking each block to the one before it, the network creates a secure chain that is nearly impossible to alter without being detected.

Key features of Block

• Contains transaction data
• Linked via cryptographic hashes
• Includes a timestamp and nonce
• Immutable once buried under subsequent blocks
• Uniform size or gas limit depending on the network

Examples of Block

• The Bitcoin Genesis Block (Block 0), mined by Satoshi Nakamoto.
• An Ethereum block containing a mix of Uniswap trades and NFT mints.
• A "stale block" that was mined but not included in the main chain.