What is a transaction hash

Transaction hash

A transaction hash is a unique identifier that represents a particular transaction on the blockchain. It is a cryptographic hash function applied to the transaction data, which includes details such as the sender's and receiver's addresses, the amount being transferred, and any additional data or metadata.

Note: Transaction Hash may be shortened to Tx Hash.

The primary purposes of a transaction hash

  1. Identification: Each transaction on the blockchain has a unique hash that distinguishes it from all other transactions. This hash serves as an identifier for the transaction.

  2. Verification: The transaction hash is used to verify the integrity of the transaction data. If any part of the transaction data is modified, even a single bit, the resulting hash will be completely different. This property makes it possible to detect any tampering or corruption of the transaction data.

  3. Indexing and lookup: Blockchain explorers and wallets use transaction hashes as a way to lookup and reference specific transactions. Users can search for a particular transaction hash to view its details, such as the sender, receiver, amount, and status (confirmed or unconfirmed).

When a new transaction is broadcasted to the blockchain network, its hash is calculated, and the transaction is then included in a block by miners or validators. Once the block is confirmed and added to the blockchain, the transaction hash becomes a permanent record, and the transaction is considered complete and irreversible.

Transaction hashes are an essential component of blockchain technology, providing a secure and tamper-evident way to identify and verify transactions, and enabling transparency and auditability within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.


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