What is the relationship between the merge and the block number in Ethereum?

3 answers

• Laustsen SalisburyFeb 26, 2025 · 6 months ago
  The merge in Ethereum refers to the transition from the current proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanism to the proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. This transition will have an impact on the block number in the Ethereum blockchain. Currently, the block number represents the number of blocks that have been mined in the PoW chain. However, after the merge, the block number will represent the number of blocks that have been validated by the PoS validators. In other words, the merge will change the way the block number is determined and will mark a significant shift in the Ethereum network's consensus mechanism.
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• Schulz HoweSep 25, 2021 · 4 years ago
  When it comes to the relationship between the merge and the block number in Ethereum, it's important to understand the difference between PoW and PoS. In the PoW system, miners compete to solve complex mathematical problems to validate transactions and create new blocks. Each block has a unique block number, which represents its position in the blockchain. However, with the merge to PoS, the block number will no longer be determined by the mining process. Instead, it will be determined by the consensus of the PoS validators. This means that the block number will continue to increase, but the way it is calculated will be different.
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• Boone TimmNov 25, 2023 · 2 years ago
  The merge in Ethereum is a highly anticipated event that will bring several changes to the network, including the way the block number is determined. Currently, the block number is a measure of the total number of blocks mined in the Ethereum blockchain. However, after the merge, the block number will represent the number of blocks validated by the PoS validators. This change is significant because it marks the transition from a PoW to a PoS consensus mechanism. The merge is expected to improve the scalability, security, and energy efficiency of the Ethereum network, making it more sustainable in the long run.
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