$ETH

Ethereum (ETH) is one of the most prominent cryptocurrencies in the crypto market, ranking second in market capitalization after Bitcoin. However, it differs from Bitcoin in its functions and goals; while Bitcoin is viewed as a digital asset used as a store of value, Ethereum was designed as a decentralized system that supports smart contracts and decentralized finance (DeFi).

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What is Ethereum?

Ethereum is an open-source software platform based on blockchain technology, enabling developers to create and deploy decentralized applications (dApps). It was launched in 2015 by Russian-Canadian programmer Vitalik Buterin, revolutionizing the concept of decentralization with its programmability.

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Key Features of Ethereum:

1. Smart Contracts:

Allow agreements to be executed automatically without the involvement of a third party.

2. Decentralized Finance (DeFi):

Hundreds of financial applications today rely on the Ethereum network to provide services such as lending and trading without intermediaries.

3. **Transition to Proof