Core Blockchain Concepts
To effectively interact with the ArcBlock blockchain using the GraphQLClient, it's crucial to understand the foundational concepts that underpin its ecosystem. This section provides an overview of Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs), Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), Tokens, Wallets and Accounts, and Verifiable Credentials (VCs).
These concepts are interconnected, forming the building blocks for secure, decentralized applications on the ArcBlock chain. Each concept plays a vital role in managing identities, assets, and verifiable claims.
Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs)#
Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) are unique identity addresses that serve as universal identifiers for various entities within the ArcBlock ecosystem. They are derived from a set of credentials and are fundamental to establishing unique identities for accounts, tokens, NFTs, and more. ArcBlock's flexible and extensible DID generation process allows developers and users to choose their preferred algorithm combinations for public key encryption, hashing, and encoding.
For a comprehensive understanding of DID notation, the detailed generation algorithm, and the various RoleType, KeyType, and HashType options, please refer to the dedicated section on Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs).
Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)#
Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), often interchangeably referred to as Assets on the ArcBlock chain, are cryptographic assets distinguished by unique identifiers and metadata. Unlike fungible tokens, NFTs represent unique items and can be used for diverse applications, from digital art and real estate to identity and certificates. On the ArcBlock chain, NFTs essentially store data that needs to be recorded and identified by a unique DID.
NFTs on ArcBlock are highly customizable, supporting mutable or immutable states, and can be extended with NFT Display for visual representation and NFT Endpoint for dynamic attributes and actions. The concept of an NFT Factory allows for the creation of standardized NFTs efficiently.
To delve deeper into the definition, extensive use cases, structural components, extendability, security considerations, and the functionality of NFT Factories, explore the Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) section.
Tokens#
Tokens on the ArcBlock chain are the native cryptocurrencies secured by cryptography, making counterfeiting and double-spending virtually impossible. The native token on the main chain is ABT. Developers have the flexibility to create custom tokens by sending CreateTokenTx transactions. ArcBlock tokens enable various user interactions beyond simple transfers, including purchasing digital properties (NFTs) and exchanging between different tokens.
The chain also supports Foreign Tokens, which correlate a token on the ArcBlock chain with a token on an EVM-compatible chain, maintaining consistent symbol, decimal, and supply. This cross-chain functionality is facilitated by ArcBridge.
For a detailed explanation of tokens, their creation, the concept of foreign tokens, and how they function within the ArcBlock ecosystem, please visit the Tokens section.
Wallets and Accounts#
In the ArcBlock ecosystem, Wallets and Accounts are distinct yet closely related concepts. A Wallet typically consists of a secret key (SK), a public key (PK), and an address (DID), used for signing and verifying messages and transactions. Safeguarding the secret key is paramount as it grants ownership of funds.
An Account, on the other hand, is a data entry residing in the blockchain ledger, uniquely identified by a DID. Accounts can own tokens and NFTs, be migrated, and users can manage multiple accounts, typically through DID Wallet. Most accounts are backed by a wallet, meaning possession of the wallet's secret key implies control over the account's assets.
To understand the nuances and the critical relationship between Wallets and Accounts, refer to the Wallets and Accounts section.
Verifiable Credentials (VCs)#
Verifiable Credentials (VCs) are cryptographically secured digital versions of traditional credentials, offering instant, tamper-proof verification without needing to contact the issuer. They provide significant benefits, including enhanced privacy (users control what data to reveal), immutability, and portability, as no personal data is stored directly on the blockchain.
VCs have diverse use cases, ranging from digital passports and membership proofs to academic certificates and KYC attestations. While NFTs are always on-chain, VCs do not necessarily need to be, as their cryptographic nature ensures self-proof. To maintain consistency, VCs utilize the same display and endpoint mechanisms as NFTs, allowing for visual presentation and dynamic status/action information.
For a deeper dive into the benefits, various use cases, their relationship with NFTs, and how to work with Verifiable Credentials, please see the Verifiable Credentials (VCs) section.
Understanding these core blockchain concepts is foundational to building robust applications on the ArcBlock chain. With this knowledge, you are now ready to explore the client's capabilities in detail. Continue to the Client Capabilities section to learn how to query blockchain data, send transactions, and subscribe to real-time events.