Briefly describe blockchain technology and provide one library application beyond cryptocurrency.

• A. A distributed, cryptographically validated database; used to securely store and transfer student records or manage digital credentials.
• B. A centralized ledger owned by a single company; used to track fines.
• C. A type of database that cannot be updated; used to archive old books.
• D. A peer-to-peer cash system only.

Answer: (A)