Block Height Definition
The block height of a blockchain refers to the number of blocks in the blockchain following the genesis block, or the very first block in the chain. It is a simple numerical representation of the length of a specific blockchain.
Block Height Key Points
- Block Height is a measure of blockchain length, or how many blocks are in a chain from the genesis block to the latest one.
- It functions as an index, indicating the sequence of blocks and transactions.
- A higher block height correlates to a longer chain, meaning more transactions have been made and confirmed in the network.
What is Block Height?
The term ‘block height’ in the world of cryptocurrency refers to the total number of blocks in a blockchain. Given that a blockchain is a continuously growing list of records known as blocks, the block height represents the ‘height’ of the blockchain, similar to measuring the height of a stack of blocks. Unlike physical blocks, however, the blocks in a blockchain consist of digital information outlining transactions.
Where is Block Height Used?
Block height is particularly significant in the Bitcoin blockchain, where it is used as a reference point for several important operations. For instance, during a hard fork, the community can agree on a specific block height at which the fork will occur. Similarly, new Bitcoin upgrades such as SegWit often list a block height as a trigger point. In addition, block height serves as a basis for block explorers, which allow users to view transaction histories and details using block height as an identifier.
When is Block Height Important?
Block height becomes notably important during discussions regarding the scale and scope of a blockchain’s activity. Any block on the chain can be identified by its height, which, being a consecutive number from the genesis block, allows for unique identification of each particular block. It plays a vital role in time stamping transactions since the higher the block height, the older the transactions it incorporates.
Why does Block Height Matter?
Block height is vital to the proper functioning of a blockchain. It allows anyone to either locate a specific block or assess the size and transaction history of a given blockchain. It also has significant practical implications for miners, because a blockchain’s block reward often changes depending on its height, especially in cryptocurrencies that implement halving events, like Bitcoin.
How is Block Height Determined?
A block’s height is simply determined by its position in the chain. The very first block, also known as the genesis block, has a height of zero. Each subsequent block adds one to the height. A new block is added to a blockchain every time a new transaction or set of transactions is validated and confirmed by the network’s participants. Consequently, the block height continually increases as long as the blockchain network is active.
