Ordinals
Last updated
Last updated
Ordinals serve as a numerical system for satoshis. Each satoshi is assigned a serial number, allowing for tracking across transactions and making them unique by attaching additional data through the process of "inscription".
A satoshi, the smallest bitcoin denomination, is named after Bitcoin's pseudonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. The numbering of satoshis is based on the order of mining and transfer, giving rise to the term "ordinals". Ordinal numbers act as stable identifiers for the data attached to satoshis, with the first satoshi in the first block having the ordinal number 0, the second having 1, and so forth.
Moreover, ordinal numbers can be employed as stable identifiers to link various assets, such as NFTs, security tokens, accounts, or stablecoins, to satoshis, providing a consistent means of identification.
Bitcoin Ordinals function as digital assets within the existing Bitcoin network. When you initiate the creation of an Ordinal, the system stores it as your Bitcoins on a decentralized blockchain.
Unlike traditional Bitcoins, Ordinals possess the unique characteristics of being indivisible and non-fungible. This implies that they cannot be divided or exchanged for other assets. Additionally, Ordinals operate under their own protocol, allowing for the minting of NFT-like assets.
This protocol generates a distinct address for each asset created on the Bitcoin blockchain, resembling a seed phrase. This address facilitates the establishment of a "node" connected to the Bitcoin network, enabling transactions to take place.
Upon creating an address for an asset, users gain the ability to transfer ownership of that asset using their private keys. Subsequently, these transactions are broadcast across the network and undergo verification through the Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus algorithm. The PoW algorithm ensures all parties agree on its validity before the ledger records it.
Ordinals enable the creation of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) on the Bitcoin blockchain. NFTs serve as unique digital assets that represent ownership of physical or digital items, ranging from music to collectibles. This functionality facilitates users in effortlessly monitoring and transferring ownership of these items in a secure and transparent manner.
Bitcoin Ordinals enhance the security of transactions conducted on the Bitcoin network. By assigning a unique identity to each satoshi, it becomes more challenging for hackers to pilfer funds from users' wallets.
The introduction of Bitcoin Ordinals has sparked a renewed interest in the development of the Bitcoin network. Since their inception, Ordinals have led to a surge in BTC transactions, rekindling developers' enthusiasm for creating novel applications atop the Bitcoin blockchain.