What are some real-world examples of immutable data?

What are some real-world examples of immutable data?

Immutable data refers to data that cannot be changed after it is created. Some real-world examples include blockchain transactions, where once a block is added, it cannot be altered, and certain programming languages like Haskell, which use immutable data structures.

Can you explain how blockchain uses immutable data?

Sure! In blockchain, each block contains a list of transactions and a cryptographic hash of the previous block. Once a block is added to the chain, it becomes part of a permanent record, making it immutable. This ensures that no one can alter past transactions without changing all subsequent blocks, which is computationally infeasible.

What are the benefits of using immutable data?

The benefits include enhanced data integrity, easier debugging, and improved performance in concurrent programming. Since immutable data cannot be changed, it reduces the chances of unintended side effects and makes it easier to reason about code.

Are there any downsides to using immutable data?

Yes, some downsides include increased memory usage since new copies of data are created instead of modifying existing ones, and potential performance overhead in certain scenarios where frequent updates are needed.