Altcoins Explained: Key features and differences of Ethereum, Ripple, and emerging cryptocurrencies beyond Bitcoin.
The cryptocurrency market has grown exponentially since the introduction of Bitcoin in 2009, giving rise to a vast array of alternative coins, or altcoins. These digital currencies aim to improve upon Bitcoin's original framework or address niche use cases, offering unique functionalities. Among the most notable are Ethereum, Ripple (XRP), and a host of emerging cryptocurrencies, each with its distinct characteristics, applications, and target audiences. In this article, we delve into the key features and differences of these altcoins, shedding light on what sets them apart in the rapidly evolving crypto landscape. Ethereum: The Pioneer of Smart Contracts Ethereum, launched in 2015, is often referred to as the second-generation blockchain. It introduced the concept of smart contracts, self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. These contracts run on the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), enabling developers to build decentralized applications ...