Homework: Relay chain, Parachains and Parathreads

Polkadot 101
#141

Parachain and Parathread - parachains interact with Polkadot using a dedicated slot for life of lease. Parathreads are pay per use.
Relay chain - Connected to all validators, allows secure communication between all parachains and parathreads.

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#142
  1. What are Parachains and what are Parathreads?

Parachain support a number of executions slots, has exact same API and bridges can connect non parachain chains to polkadot network built Ada parachain module. Parathreads temporary participation in polkadot security. Chains would not be able to acquire a full parachain slot enable to participate in polka dot shared security.

  1. What is a Relay chain and how do Parachains/Parathreads relate to the Relay chain?

Parachain/parathreads are connected on the relay chain. All blockchain are connected to the relay chain to process transactions from all chains in the network at the same time provides secure way for chains to communicate with each other

#143
  1. What are parachains and what are parathreads?
  • Parachains: These are like the heavy-hitters of the Polkadot network. Parachains are specialized blockchains that connect to the Polkadot relay chain. They’re designed for high-performance and can process transactions and smart contracts. Think of them as the main lanes on a highway, handling a lot of traffic efficiently.
  • Parathreads: Parathreads, on the other hand, are more like the express lanes. They’re a bit different from parachains because they pay for the network usage as they go, rather than locking up DOT tokens. Parathreads are a cost-effective way for projects to connect to the Polkadot network without the commitment of a full parachain slot.
  1. What is a Relay chain and how do parachains and parathreads relate to the relay chain?
  • The Relay chain is like the central nervous system of Polkadot. It’s the main chain that coordinates everything. The relay chain doesn’t process smart contracts or store data like parachains; its primary role is to manage the network’s consensus, security, and communication between different parachains and parathreads.
  • Parachains and parathreads connect to the relay chain to benefit from its security and interoperability. They rely on the relay chain for finalizing transactions and communicating with other chains in the Polkadot ecosystem. It’s like the relay chain is the conductor of an orchestra, ensuring all the different chains play in harmony.