What Is Hash In Bitcoin?

A hash is a cryptographic function that converts input data into a fixed-size, unique output. It's a one-way process: easy to produce but challenging to reverse without testing all possible inputs. In Bitcoin, hashing ensures data integrity, as even a minor change in input yields a drastically different output. The common hash function in Bitcoin is SHA-256. The term "hash" also refers to the output produced by this function, helping verify data consistency and authenticity in the blockchain.