Bitcoin (BTC)
Bitcoin (BTC) is the world’s first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group using the name Satoshi Nakamoto. It is a decentralized digital currency, meaning it operates without a central bank or government. Instead, it uses blockchain technology, a public and tamper-proof digital ledger where all transactions are recorded.
Bitcoin is created through a process called mining, where powerful computers solve complex mathematical problems to validate transactions and add them to the blockchain. In return, miners receive newly generated bitcoins as a reward.
One of Bitcoin’s main features is its limited supply — only 21 million BTC will ever exist. This scarcity is one reason why people compare Bitcoin to "digital gold."
Bitcoin is used for various purposes, including online purchases, remittances, and as an investment or store of value. It has gained popularity as a hedge against inflation and government control of currency.
Despite its potential, Bitcoin is also known for its volatility — its price can rise or fall dramatically. While some view it as a revolution in finance, others raise concerns about its use in illegal activities and its impact on the environment due to energy consumption in mining.