Ethereum, a decentralized, open-source blockchain, revolutionized digital landscapes with its smart contract functionality. Unlike Bitcoin, Ethereum enables developers to build and deploy decentralized applications (dApps), fostering innovation across finance, gaming, and more. Its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), fuels these operations. The platform's transition to proof-of-stake, known as "The Merge," significantly improved its energy efficiency. Ethereum's versatility underpins DeFi and NFTs, reshaping digital ownership and financial systems. While facing scalability challenges, Ethereum remains a pivotal force in the evolution of Web3, driving the future of decentralized technology.