$ETH ETH, or Ether, is the native cryptocurrency of the Ethereum blockchain. Ethereum is a decentralized, open-source platform that enables the creation of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).

Here's a breakdown:

* Function:

* ETH serves as "gas" to pay for transaction fees and computational services on the Ethereum network.

* It's also used as a store of value and for trading.

* Ethereum's Role:

* Ethereum's key innovation is its ability to execute smart contracts, which are self-executing agreements coded on the blockchain.

* This functionality powers a wide range of applications, including decentralized finance (DeFi) and NFTs.

* It is the second largest crypto currency by market cap, behind bitcoin.