Ethereum: Why is the Litecoin blockchain smaller than the Bitcoin one?
Why is Ethereum’s blockchain’s lower than Bitcoin’s Bitcoin, according to recent studies
When it comes to decentralized applications (DAPPS) built on blockchain -cryptocurrency such as Ethereum and Bitcoin, one of the most crucial parameters is the blockchain dimension. Two of the most popular cryptocurrency, Ethereum and Litecoin, have aroused a debate on the dimensions of the respective block. While some may argue that these differences make them more suitable for certain cases of use, recent studies suggest that they are indeed comparable to the total dimension.
In this article, we will deepen the reason why the Ethereum blockchain is lower than that of Bitcoin, according to the latest research and data analyzes.
Bitcoin Block Dimension Debate
For the unknown, a dimension of the block refers to the amount of memory needed to store a single block on the Bitcoin network. A larger dimension of the block allows the processing of several transactions simultaneously without sacrificing security. However, the pregnancy increases on the miners’ networks, potentially slowing down transactions.
In 2017, the Bitcoin network experienced a significant congestion due to the large size of the block. The high transaction fees results and the slower processing times of transactions have led to widespread critics on the Bitcoin protocol. To solve this problem, Bitcoin developers have implemented a hard fork to increase the size limit of the block from 1 MB to 2 MB in September 2020.
Blockchain size Ethereum
On the other hand, Ethereum has experienced with different consensus algorithms and scalability solutions. Such a solution is Ethereum 2.0, which aims to pass the network from a work mechanism (POW) to a model of proof (POS).
According to recent studies, the size of the Ethereum blockchain may be significantly smaller than that of Bitcoin due to several factors:
* Ethereum’s consensus algorithm : Ethereum uses a consensus algorithm called a stake, which is more energy efficient and scalable than POW. This makes it more suitable for the massive quantities of transactions generated by the Ethereum network.
* Gas costs : Gas (petrol units) are used to measure the necessary calculation power to solve complex mathematical puzzles in blockchain. Lower gas costs lead to faster transactions processing, which can increase use and adoption.
* Scalability solutions : Ethereum has implemented various scalability solutions, including sharpening, chain outside transactions and the functionality of the intelligent contract. These features allow the network to process several transactions per second, while maintaining a reasonable dimension of the block.
Block size comparison
Comparison of the two block dimensions:
| | Bitcoin (2 MB) | Ethereum (1 MB – currently under development) |
| — | — | — |
|
Transaction rate : | The slowest due to high transaction fees and slow processing times. | Faster due to lower gas costs, increased scalability and better network efficiency. |
Conclusion
The differences in the size of the block between Bitcoin and Ethereum are largely determined by the basic consensus algorithms and the scalability solutions used by each network. While both cryptocurrencies face challenges in terms of congestion, energy consumption and scalability, their respective block dimensions can be seen as a reflection of design philosophers and technological priorities.
Finally, the choice of blockchain for a specific use case depends on various factors, including security requirements, transaction volume and developer preferences. As we continue to explore new characteristics and capacities in both cryptocurrencies, it is essential to understand the compromises involved in the design choices of each network.