How did the merger happen?

Sources:

The Ethereum blockchain underwent a significant transformation through a process known as "The Merge." Initially, there were two separate chains: the original Ethereum 1.0 chain, which utilized a proof of work consensus mechanism, and the beacon chain, which used proof of stake. The beacon chain was introduced first to allow it to mature and demonstrate stability before merging with the Ethereum 1.0 chain.

The Merge involved transitioning the activities from the Ethereum 1.0 chain to the beacon chain, effectively moving from a proof of work to a proof of stake consensus mechanism. This transition aimed to be seamless for users, with the pre-existing proof of stake chain already operational and proven to be effective. The move was intended to enhance scalability, security, and sustainability of the Ethereum network 1.

Ethereum Chain Merge

Vitalik explains the process of merging the Ethereum 1.0 chain with the beacon chain that uses proof of stake as a consensus mechanism. The proof of stake chain has been running for close to six months now, and the merge will take the activity that's being done inside of the proof of work chain and move it over into the proof of stake chain. The new version is designed to be much more seamless for users.

Lex Fridman Podcast

Vitalik Buterin: Ethereum 2.0 | Lex Fridman Podcast #188
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