Block Height

In blockchain networks, each new block added to the chain gets a unique number called its block height, starting from zero for the very first block, known as the Genesis block. The block height increases by one for each subsequent block, making it easy to identify a block's position in the chain.

Block height serves as a timestamp within the blockchain, marking specific points in its history. For instance, Bitcoin’s halving events take place at set block heights—every 210,000 blocks. Some Bitcoin transactions are also set to unlock or execute only after the chain reaches a particular block height. By referencing block height, users and developers can track the progress of the blockchain or schedule certain activities with precision.