Blockchain (English name: blockchain[3][4][7] or block chain[2]) is a type of block chain storage, immutable, secure, and trustworthy decentralized distributed ledger[1]. It combines distributed storage, peer-to-peer transmission, consensus mechanisms, cryptography, and other technologies[8], recording transactions and information through an ever-growing chain of data blocks (Blocks), ensuring the security and transparency of data[6].
Blockchain originated from Bitcoin, initially proposed by Satoshi Nakamoto in 2008 as the underlying technology for Bitcoin[1]. From the early days of the Bitcoin network, blockchain has gradually evolved into a global technology, attracting attention and investment from around the world[3]. Subsequently, the emergence of new generation blockchain platforms such as Ethereum further expanded the application fields[3][4].
The characteristics of blockchain include decentralization, immutability, transparency, security, and programmability [6][8]. Each data block is linked to the previous block, forming a continuous chain that ensures the integrity of transaction history. Smart contract technology makes blockchain programmable, supporting a wider range of applications [5].
Blockchain is widely applied in fields such as finance, supply chain, healthcare, and real estate [5][8]. Although it still faces scalability and regulatory challenges, it has become a powerful tool for transforming traditional business and social models, with enormous potential for the future.