Chain Reorganizations and Consensus

9 min readarticleIncludes quiz · 5 questions

Understand how Bitcoin handles competing chains and achieves consensus through reorganizations.

Chain Reorganization Basics:

  • •Definition: Replacing blocks with a longer chain
  • •Natural Occurrence: Happens with simultaneous blocks
  • •Depth: Usually 1-2 blocks deep
  • •Resolution: Longest chain (most work) wins
  • •Frequency: Several times per month for 1-block

Consensus Rules:

  • •Nakamoto Consensus: Follow chain with most proof-of-work
  • •Block Validation: Every rule must be followed
  • •No Voting: Code enforcement, not democracy
  • •Fork Choice: Automatic chain selection
  • •Finality: Probabilistic, not absolute

Test Your Knowledge

This lesson includes a 5-question quiz (passing score: 75%).

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