Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Glossary

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EVM

1 min read
Pronunciation
[ee-vee-em]
Analogy
EVM is like the JVM (Java Virtual Machine) but for blockchain contracts.
Definition
Abbreviation for Ethereum Virtual Machine, the runtime environment for smart contracts on Ethereum.
Key Points Intro
Key EVM attributes are:
Key Points

Stack machine: Operates on a LIFO stack of 256‑bit values.

Gas metering: Prevents infinite loops and funds execution.

State trie: Stores account and contract storage data.

Cross‑chain: Adopted by many Ethereum‑compatible chains.

Example
Binance Smart Chain runs an EVM‑compatible environment, allowing Ethereum contracts to deploy unchanged.
Technical Deep Dive
EVM bytecode is executed by clients (Geth, Besu) implementing the Ethereum Yellow Paper. State is stored in a Merkle Patricia Trie keyed by account addresses. Clients enforce gas limits and block gas caps.
Security Warning
Cross‑chain replay attacks possible if chain IDs are not verified in transactions.
Caveat
EVM incompatibilities exist across clients; test on multiple implementations.
Related Terms
Ethereum Virtual Machine
Solidity
Gas

EVM - Related Articles

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