Beacon Chain
The proof-of-stake consensus layer of Ethereum, coordinating validators since December 2020.
What is Beacon Chain?
The Beacon Chain is Ethereum’s proof-of-stake (PoS) blockchain, launched on December 1, 2020, to manage the PoS consensus mechanism. It operates as the coordination layer for validators who stake ETH to secure the network, propose blocks, and attest to their validity.
Fully integrated with Ethereum’s execution layer during The Merge in 2022, the Beacon Chain replaced proof-of-work mining, enabling faster and more energy-efficient transaction processing. It is critical for Ethereum’s security and scalability, supporting validator duties and finality.
Related Terms
Flashbots
A research and development organization dedicated to mitigating the negative externalities of Maximal Extractable Value (MEV) on Ethereum through open-source infrastructure and transparent block-building markets.
Smart Contracts for Data Exchange
Self-executing contracts for automated data asset transactions.
51% Attack
A 51% attack occurs when a single entity or group controls over 50% of a blockchain’s computing power or stake, allowing them to manipulate the network’s transaction ledger.
CBDC
A central bank-issued digital currency designed to function as legal tender.
Depth Chart
A visual graph depicting the cumulative buy and sell orders across price ranges in an order book.
Consumer Price Index (CPI)
A monthly measure of average price changes in a fixed basket of goods and services purchased by urban consumers, produced by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.