Block Timestamp
A block timestamp records the approximate time when a block is validated and added to the blockchain, typically in Unix epoch format. It provides a temporal context for the transactions included in the block.
For web3 developers, block timestamps are crucial for implementing time-based functionalities in smart contracts, such as auctions, vesting schedules, or time-locked operations. Developers must account for potential discrepancies and the inherent variability in block times, ensuring that smart contracts remain secure and function as intended under different network conditions.