Bitcoin (BTC) revolutionized finance by introducing a digital, decentralized alternative to traditional currencies. Its core innovation lies in the blockchain, a distributed public ledger that records every transaction transparently and immutably. Unlike fiat money, Bitcoin isn't controlled by any central bank or government, making it resistant to censorship and inflation.
New BTC enters circulation through "mining," a process where powerful computers solve complex puzzles to validate transactions. This proof-of-work mechanism secures the network and incentivizes participants. While known for its price volatility, Bitcoin's limited supply of 21 million coins, global accessibility, and inherent security features have cemented its status as a store of value and a burgeoning asset class.
