Bitcoin is a digital currency, also known as a cryptocurrency, that operates independently of a central bank. It was created in 2009 by an unknown person using the alias Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin transactions are recorded on a public ledger called blockchain, and the currency is stored in a digital wallet. One of the main features of Bitcoin is its decentralized nature, meaning it operates on a peer-to-peer network instead of being governed by a single authority. The supply of bitcoin is limited, with a maximum of 21 million bitcoins in existence. The price of bitcoin is determined by supply and demand on cryptocurrency exchanges and can fluctuate widely. Bitcoin has gained popularity as a speculative investment and is accepted as payment by many merchants and businesses.