$LTC Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized blockchain platform that enables smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and others, it introduced programmability to blockchain through the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). ETH, its native cryptocurrency, is used for transactions, smart contract execution, and staking. Ethereum transitioned from proof-of-work (PoW) to proof-of-stake (PoS) in 2022 with "The Merge," improving energy efficiency. It supports decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and various Web3 innovations. Ethereum’s continuous upgrades, such as sharding, aim to enhance scalability and reduce fees, solidifying its role as a foundational layer for blockchain applications worldwide.