Cardano (ADA) is a decentralized cryptocurrency platform based on a scientific approach and designed for scalability, interoperability, and sustainability. Founded in 2015 by Charles Hoskinson, one of the co-founders of Ethereum, Cardano utilizes a unique Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus protocol called Ouroboros, which is designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional Proof of Work (PoW) methods.

ADA is the native token of the Cardano network and serves as a medium of exchange and a store of value within the ecosystem. The ADA token can also be staked to participate in the network's consensus process and earn rewards for maintaining the network.

Cardano is developed using a scientific approach based on formal verification methods and academic peer review, aiming to ensure high-quality code and balanced development. The platform consists of two layers: a settlement layer responsible for cryptocurrency transactions, such as transferring ADA tokens, and a computation layer for creating and executing smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).

Cardano aims to address the issues of scalability, interoperability, and sustainability faced by current blockchain solutions. Due to its ambitions and scientific approach to development, Cardano has gained widespread recognition and interest from investors and developers within the cryptocurrency space.