> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.chainrpc.io/chainrpc/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.chainrpc.io/chainrpc/networks/ethereum.md).

# Ethereum

Ethereum is a decentralized, open-source blockchain network with [Turing-complete](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turing_completeness) smart contract functionality. Ether (ETH) is the native cryptocurrency. As of mid-September 2022, Ethereum uses the Proof of Stake consensus mechanism.

Use Ethereum to build apps and organizations, hold assets, transact, and communicate without being controlled by a central authority. Ethereum uses the [Proof of Stake (PoS)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proof_of_stake) consensus mechanism.

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The Ethereum network has been upgraded from the original Proof of Work consensus mechanism to Proof of Stake during [The Merge](broken://pages/oPEkF4PXc4nh0cdHm416).
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chainRPC provides access to the [Ethereum JSON-RPC API](broken://pages/jjagORiusiMspLbb2VSF) method library that interacts with the Ethereum blockchain. Methods include functionality for reading and writing data to the network, and executing smart contracts. 

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See the [official Ethereum documentation](https://ethereum.org/en/) for more information.
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