Hashing in blockchain

Hashing is an important concept in blockchain and has a huge role in the functioning of a blockchain application. The applications of hash functions range from minor blockchain implementations, such as creating a digest for a large amount of data, to major implementations, such as maintaining the integrity of the blocks in the chain. Hash functions are also used in Proof of Work consensus algorithms to solve the Byzantine failure problem, which we'll cover in depth, later in the chapter. To begin with, we'll explore some concepts of blockchain that make use of hash functions.

Linking blocks in a blockchain

As defined in the introductory chapter, a blockchain is a continuously growing collection...