What is Ethereum?

Ethereum is a decentralized, open source blockchain platform introduced in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and a group of developers. It is designed to enable the creation and deployment of smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps) using its native cryptocurrency called Ether (ETH). Ethereum blockchain allows developers to build and deploy applications that run exactly as programmed without downtime, fraud, or interference from a third party. It is known for introducing the concept of smart contracts, self executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. Ethereum has gained attention for its potential to revolutionize various industries beyond just digital currency.