Shorter Chains in blockdata

2

Assuming two blocks are published at exactly the same time, a race for the next block to be added to one of them begins, which eventually one chain will eventually win.

My question: will the shorter chain still be published? Does the network still syncronize the shorter chain, i.e. does every client contain a copy of not only the longest chain, but all (for lack of a better word) "sidechains"? If so, are there any conditions as to what will be syncronized beyond block validity?

Thanks in advance!

Moritz Knüppel

Posted 2018-01-25T15:15:50.087

Reputation: 56

FYI, "sidechain" has a specific meaning, and that's not it. You are referring to what is called a "fork". It means the network is split on which block is considered the valid one. A sidechain is a separate blockchain altogether, that uses smart contracts to create a token on its own chain by locking one on another. – Jestin – 2018-01-25T18:27:23.597

@Jestin: Please feel free to answer the actual question. – Moritz Knüppel – 2018-01-25T19:32:36.093

1I don't actually know the specifics of how a node stores alternate forks. I'm learning just like you are, and am also waiting for an answer. – Jestin – 2018-01-25T19:37:05.917

Answers

0

will the shorter chain still be published?

Published -- no. However, if the stale tip was previously the best tip, it will be stored in a Bitcoin Core node implementation according to the source and other nodes can retrieve it up to a certain point in time. The time limit is imposed to avoid fingerprinting.

Does the network still synchronize the shorter chain.

No, the node only ever extends the active chain.

renlord

Posted 2018-01-25T15:15:50.087

Reputation: 2 167

Asked: 2018-01-25T15:15:50.087

Viewed: 65 times

Active: 2019-11-17T00:03:10.453