What is an NFT (Non-Fungible Token)?

NFT is a unique digital certificate recorded on blockchain that guarantees authenticity and ownership of a digital object.

NFT (Non-Fungible Token) differs from regular cryptocurrencies in that each token is unique and cannot be replaced by another (like the Mona Lisa painting). 1 BTC = 1 BTC, but 1 NFT ≠ 1 NFT.

Technically, an NFT is a smart contract (usually ERC-721 or ERC-1155 standard on Ethereum) containing a link to a media file and ownership history. These standards define how tokens are created and transferred between users.

NFTs can be purchased on marketplaces like OpenSea, Rarible, or Magic Eden. Popular use cases: digital art (Beeple, CryptoPunks), gaming items, music, domain names, event tickets, digital identity.

Environmental concerns: NFTs on Ethereum previously consumed significant energy due to Proof-of-Work, but after the 2022 transition to Proof-of-Stake, energy consumption decreased by 99.9%.

🧒 Explain Like I'm 5

Imagine you bought an autographed card of a famous soccer player. It's unique. An NFT is the same card, but digital, and blockchain guarantees it's real and belongs to you.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just copy an NFT image?
Yes, you can save the image (like photographing the Mona Lisa). But you won't own the original blockchain record that proves ownership and has value to collectors.
Where can I buy NFTs?
NFTs can be purchased on marketplaces like OpenSea (largest), Rarible, Magic Eden, or Blur. You'll need a crypto wallet (e.g., MetaMask) and cryptocurrency (ETH, SOL, MATIC) to buy.
Are NFTs environmentally friendly?
After Ethereum's transition to Proof-of-Stake (2022), NFT energy consumption dropped by 99.9%. Creating and trading NFTs now uses minimal energy, comparable to sending an email.

🔗 Related Terms

Prerequisites:

📚 Sources

3. OpenSea - NFT Marketplace 📊 Secondary
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