Did you know the differences between a Linked List and a Blockchain?
Have you heard about a linked list? Did you know it also contains sequential matter?
But how do these relate to a Blockchain?
Well, these two different types of data structures- blockchain, and linked list both have a wide range of applications, including coding, database creation, server creation, and, more recently, the creation of cryptographic money and non-fungible tokens. These data structures consist of rows of data that relate to both the previous and the next data.
The key difference between Blockchain and Linked List is that a Blockchain uses a more intricate and non-linear method of data organization. All these data entries are made unique via hashing, which is decentralized. On the other hand, a linked list is not decentralized and organizes data linearly. It distinguishes between all data using pointers.
What is Blockchain?
A blockchain is a Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), which means it may retain records of transactions that are no longer changeable. It is constantly online because it is dispersed across a massive network of computers known as nodes.
Every transaction preserved in the blockchain is protected by a unique hash and cannot be tampered with, and each block includes the hash of the preceding block, forming a chain.
Varied blocks have different capacities in terms of data storage, and once they are full, they are closed and immediately connected to the preceding blocks.
Each block holds data or transactions, a hash code, and a timestamp that may be used to identify it.
A blockchain is a trustworthy data storage system since it is decentralized and chronological, making any fraudulent modifications at any one or few nodes immediately recognizable because their timestamps and hash codes will change while the other nodes’ would not.
Other than documenting transactions, blockchain may provide a unique and recognizable print on any essential data stored in it.
What is a Linked List?
A linked list is a form of data structure in computer programming and architecture that is characterized by its storage type.
The entries or nodes in a linked list are not ordered by their positions in the computer’s memory. Each element or node, instead, includes a reference to the next element in the linked list.
Linked Lists were created in 1955-56 as a way to apply artificial intelligence (Information Processing Language). It was also utilized to create an AI-based chess app.
Following that, numerous new forms of linked lists were developed. A circular linked list is one example, in which the last node carries a pointer to the first node, forming a circle.
Other varieties of linked lists include multiple-linked lists, double-linked lists, and empty lists, all of which have various applications.
Difference Between Blockchain and Linked List
| Blockchain | Linked List |
| In a blockchain, each block carries a hash address for the previous block. | A linked list has a pointer that points to the next member in the list. |
| To store transaction data, a fairly intricate data structure with Merkle roots is used. | It is the most basic data structure since it simply stores integer values. |
| To prevent information from leaking after being inserted into a block, it is changed using cryptography. | Data is saved in its original form, as entered into the components. |
Conclusion:
A blockchain effectively transforms the simplest data structure with only one route into the most complicated data structure currently in use.
While Linked Lists are merely used to store linear data when writing and building software, blockchain technology is utilized for financial technological breakthroughs since it allows almost anything to be privately held by adding a block to it.
Because blocks cannot be altered or modified, their placement is set in place. Blockchain technology is being used to encrypt data and generate cryptocurrencies, with some nations even declaring popular blockchain currencies like bitcoin legal money.
