# HASH-160: RIPEMD-160(SHA-256)

#### What is HASH-160?

**HASH-160** is a **double hash function** unique to Bitcoin-based implementations, like the BSV blockchain.

* It first applies **SHA-256** to the input.
* Then applies **RIPEMD-160** to the SHA-256 output.

👉 The result is a **160-bit digest** that is both **secure** and **space-efficient**.

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#### Why HASH-160 Matters in BSV

In BSV, HASH-160 is primarily used to create **addresses**:

1. Start with a **public key** from an **ECDSA key pair**.
2. Take the **compressed x-coordinate** of the public key.
3. Apply **SHA-256** → then **RIPEMD-160**.
4. Encode the result in **Base58**.
5. Add a **checksum** using **Base58Check** for error detection.

👉 **Key takeaway:** HASH-160 ensures that addresses are **short, human-readable, and resistant to errors or tampering**.

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✅ **Summary:** HASH-160 = **RIPEMD-160(SHA-256)**.\
It’s the function that makes Bitcoin / BSV addresses possible by combining **cryptographic security** with **practical usability**.


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