What is Bitcoin?
Bitcoin (abbreviated as BTC) is a decentralized digital currency proposed in 2008 by an anonymous individual or group known as Satoshi Nakamoto, and officially launched in 2009. It is neither physical cash nor issued by any government or institution; instead, it operates entirely based on cryptography and blockchain technology.

Key Features

Decentralization
No banks or governments control it. The Bitcoin network is maintained collectively by nodes around the world.

Limited Supply
The total supply is capped at 21 million coins and will never increase, which is why it’s often called “digital gold.”

Peer-to-Peer Transactions
Anyone can directly transfer Bitcoin to anyone else without intermediaries, similar to sending an email.

Transparency
All transactions are recorded on the blockchain. Anyone can view them, but the accounts remain anonymous.

Immutability
Once a transaction is written into the blockchain, it is nearly impossible to alter or reverse.

How Bitcoin Works

Blockchain: A decentralized ledger that records all transactions.

Miners (Mining): Computers perform complex calculations to verify transactions and receive new Bitcoin as a reward.

Private Keys and Wallets: A private key is like a bank card PIN, and a wallet is a tool to store it. Only those who hold the private key can spend the corresponding Bitcoin.

Uses of Bitcoin

Digital Payments: Can be used to pay for goods or services online.

Store of Value: With its limited supply and resistance to inflation, many treat it as “digital gold.”

Cross-Border Transfers: Offers low fees and fast speed without requiring banks.

Investment and Speculation: Due to its price volatility, Bitcoin is also widely used for trading and investment.