$ETH, or Ethereum, is the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, after Bitcoin. It operates on the Ethereum blockchain, which supports decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts, allowing developers to create and execute code without intermediaries. Ethereum's native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), is used for transactions, network fees, and as a form of value within the ecosystem. Ethereum 2.0, a major upgrade, aims to improve scalability, security, and energy efficiency through a shift from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake. ETH has become a cornerstone for decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and blockchain innovation, contributing to its growing adoption and significant market presence.