Web3 and blockchain are two technologies that together create a secure, decentralized platform for digital transactions. Web3 is a set of technologies, including protocols, decentralized applications (DApps), and smart contracts, designed to facilitate the exchange of data, value, and services on the internet. On the other hand, blockchain is the underlying technology that powers Web3. It is a distributed ledger that records and verifies digital transactions in a secure, immutable, and transparent manner.

Web3 protocols provide the infrastructure for decentralized applications to operate on the blockchain. These protocols allow users to interact with the network, create and run applications, and exchange digital assets. Protocols like Ethereum and IPFS provide the infrastructure for developers to create and deploy decentralized applications, while protocols like Whisper and Swarm provide messaging and storage components for applications.

Smart contracts are programs written on the blockchain and stored in the distributed ledger. These contracts can execute automatically when certain conditions are met and are used to facilitate transactions between users without intermediaries.

Finally, decentralized applications (DApps) are applications that run on the blockchain and are powered by smart contracts. DApps are designed to be open-source, trustless, and censorship-resistant, allowing users to interact with the application without trusting any third party. DApps can be used for various purposes, including finance, gaming, and social media.

In summary, Web3 and blockchain are two technologies that together create a secure, decentralized platform for digital transactions. Web3 provides the infrastructure for developers to create and deploy decentralized applications, while blockchain is the underlying technology that powers Web3. Smart contracts are used to facilitate transactions between users, and decentralized applications are applications that run on the blockchain and are powered by smart contracts.

Examples

Ethereum: Ethereum is an open-source blockchain platform that enables developers to create decentralized applications and smart contracts.

Infura: Infura is a hosted Web3 platform and service that provides developers with access to Ethereum and IPFS nodes.

Truffle: Truffle is a development framework for Ethereum that provides tools for testing, debugging, and deploying smart contracts.

MakerDAO: MakerDAO is a decentralized platform for creating and managing stablecoins and other financial instruments on the Ethereum blockchain.

0x Protocol: The 0x Protocol is an open protocol for decentralized exchange on the Ethereum blockchain, enabling users to trade Ethereum-based tokens directly.

Uniswap: Uniswap is a decentralized exchange protocol on the Ethereum blockchain that enables users to trade tokens and create liquidity pools.

Aave: Aave is a decentralized lending protocol on the Ethereum blockchain that enables users to borrow and lend assets.

Compound: Compound is a decentralized lending platform on the Ethereum blockchain that enables users to earn interest on their assets.