What are the similarities between xkcd pass the salt and cryptocurrency mining?

3 answers

• Ingram WulffOct 24, 2020 · 5 years ago
  Cryptocurrency mining and the xkcd comic 'pass the salt' may not seem related at first, but they both involve the concept of 'proof of work'. In the comic, the character is asked to pass the salt, but instead of simply handing it over, he goes through a series of complex steps to prove that he has indeed passed the salt. Similarly, in cryptocurrency mining, miners solve complex mathematical problems to validate and add transactions to the blockchain. Both processes require a significant amount of computational power and energy consumption.
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• MST ESMA KHATUNNov 07, 2023 · 2 years ago
  The xkcd comic 'pass the salt' and cryptocurrency mining share a common theme of decentralized consensus. In the comic, the character's elaborate process of passing the salt highlights the need for a consensus mechanism to ensure that everyone agrees on the correct way to pass the salt. Similarly, cryptocurrency mining relies on a decentralized network of miners who reach consensus on the validity of transactions through the proof of work algorithm. Both scenarios emphasize the importance of consensus and decentralization in their respective domains.
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• ibrahim ahmadJul 10, 2025 · 4 months ago
  When it comes to xkcd's 'pass the salt' and cryptocurrency mining, the underlying similarity lies in the concept of trust. In the comic, the character's convoluted process of passing the salt is a humorous commentary on the lack of trust between individuals. Similarly, cryptocurrency mining addresses the issue of trust in a decentralized system by relying on cryptographic algorithms and consensus mechanisms. Both scenarios highlight the importance of trust and security in their own unique ways.
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