What Is Biofuel? Biofuel is a type of renewable energy source derived from microbial, plant, or animal materials. Examples of biofuels include ethanol (often made from corn in the United States and sugarcane in Brazil), biodiesel (sourced from vegetable oils and liquid animal fats), green diesel (derived from algae and other plant sources), and biogas
What Is Biometrics? Biometrics are a group of digital security methods that rely on biological or physiological attributes and that are used to prevent data breaches such as credit card hacks or unauthorized logins. Biometrics use criteria that are physically unique to an individual that can prove their identity, such as a fingerprint or voice
What Is Bioremediation? Bioremediation is a branch of biotechnology that employs the use of living organisms, like microbes and bacteria, in the removal of contaminants, pollutants, and toxins from soil, water, and other environments. Bioremediation may be used to clean up contaminated groundwater or environmental problems, such as oil spills. Key Takeaways Bioremediation is a
What Is Biotechnology? Biotechnology is a science-driven industry sector that uses living organisms and molecular biology to produce healthcare-related products. Biotechnology companies also develop therapeutics or processes (such as DNA fingerprinting). Biotechnology is best known for its role in medicine and pharmaceuticals, but the science is also applied in other areas such as genomics, food
What Is Biothermal Energy? Biothermal energy is a renewable energy source that seeks to generate electricity from the composting of organic materials. It is often used in agricultural applications, such as by exploiting the fibrous matter derived from sugarcane during sucrose extraction. Although biothermal energy is considered to be a viable source of energy production
What Was Birake (BIR)? Birake was a digital currency exchange platform launched in mid-March of 2018. It called itself the first “white label” service of this type. Birake also had its own blockchain, powered by the proof-of-stake Birake Coin (BIR). Cryptocurrency fans interested in running a decentralized exchange could purchase and download the software and
What Is the Bank for International Settlements (BIS)? The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) is an international financial institution offering banking services for national central banks and a forum for discussing monetary and regulatory policies. The BIS, which is owned by 63 national central banks, also provides independent economic analysis. Key Takeaways BIS serves as
Julie Bang / Investopedia What Is Bitcoin? Bitcoin (BTC) is a cryptocurrency, a virtual currency designed to act as money and a form of payment outside the control of any one person, group, or entity, thus removing the need for third-party involvement in financial transactions. It is rewarded to blockchain miners for the work done
What Is a Bitcoin ATM? A bitcoin ATM is an Internet-connected kiosk that allows customers to purchase bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies with deposited cash. A bitcoin ATM is not the same as an automated teller machine (ATM) that allows bank customers to physically withdraw, deposit, or transfer funds in one’s bank account. Rather, bitcoin ATMs
Bitcoin Cash (BCH) is a cryptocurrency that was created and launched to bring decentralization back to cryptocurrency. It is the result of a 2017 Bitcoin “hard fork,” which occurs when an existing blockchain splits into two. Bitcoin Cash allows a greater number of transactions in a single block than Bitcoin, which should lower fees and
