Crypto Abecedarium

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Exchange: A platform where users can buy and sell cryptocurrencies. Examples include Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken.  

Epoch: In the context of cryptocurrencies, particularly proof-of-stake (PoS) and delegated proof-of-stake (DPoS) blockchain networks, an "epoch" typically refers to a specific period during which certain network-related events or processes occur 

Encryption: The process of converting information into a code to secure it from unauthorized access. In the context of cryptocurrencies, encryption is fundamental to securing transactions and wallets.  

Escrow: A financial arrangement where a third party holds and regulates payment of funds between two parties in a transaction. In the crypto world, escrow services are often used to facilitate secure transactions, especially in peer-to-peer trades.  

Elastic Supply: Refers to a type of cryptocurrency with a supply mechanism that can expand or contract based on predefined rules. Ampleforth (AMPL) is an example of a cryptocurrency with an elastic supply that adjusts its token supply in response to market demand.  

EVM: stands for Ethereum Virtual Machine. In the context of cryptocurrency, the Ethereum Virtual Machine is a key component of the Ethereum blockchain. It is a runtime environment that executes and processes smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. 

ERC-20: A standard for fungible tokens on the Ethereum blockchain. ERC-20 tokens follow a set of rules, making them compatible with various Ethereum wallets and decentralized exchanges. 

Ecosystem: The interconnected network of projects, tokens, platforms, and users within the broader cryptocurrency and blockchain space. 

Explorer (Blockchain Explorer): A tool that allows users to view and navigate through the transactions, blocks, and other activities on a blockchain. Blockchain explorers provide transparency and visibility into the blockchain's activity. 

Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC): A cryptographic algorithm used in many blockchain systems to secure transactions and generate cryptographic keys. 

Exchange Rate: The value at which one cryptocurrency can be exchanged for another or for fiat currency. 

Entropy: A measure of the unpredictability or randomness in cryptographic keys. High entropy is crucial for generating secure private keys. 

Executable Code: Code that can be run or executed on a computer. In the context of blockchain, smart contracts are examples of executable code. 

Exponential Moving Average (EMA): A statistical calculation often used in technical analysis to smooth out price data and identify trends over a specified period. 

Emission: The rate at which new coins are created and introduced into circulation in a cryptocurrency system, often associated with proof-of-work or proof-of-stake consensus mechanisms.