Cardano (ADA) is a third-generation blockchain platform designed to offer a more secure, scalable, and energy-efficient alternative to earlier cryptocurrencies. Created by Charles Hoskinson, one of Ethereum’s co-founders, Cardano is built using a research-driven and peer-reviewed development approach. Its blockchain runs on a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism called Ouroboros, which significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining high network security. The ADA token is used for paying transaction fees, staking, and participating in various decentralized applications on the platform.