> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://x-chain-1.gitbook.io/x-chain/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://x-chain-1.gitbook.io/x-chain/token-x-chain/tokenomics/evm-chains.md). # EVM Chains * Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) networks refer to decentralized networks that utilize the EVM for executing smart contracts and running decentralized applications (dApps). The Ethereum mainnet, which is the original and largest EVM network, is the most well-known public network that is accessible to all and is safeguarded by a decentralized network of nodes. * Other EVM networks exist, such as private networks and testnets. Private networks are typically utilized for testing and development, and they can be customized to have different properties than the mainnet, such as faster block times or different consensus algorithms. Testnets are also used for testing and development, and they frequently have a different token than the mainnet, such as Ropsten for Ethereum. * Furthermore, there are other EVM compatible blockchain networks such as Binance Smart Chain (BSC), Polygon (previously Matic), and xDai, which offer improved scalability and lower transaction fees than the Ethereum mainnet. These networks, known as Layer 2 solutions, are built on top of the Ethereum mainnet and are fully compatible with EVM. This enables developers to use their existing knowledge of Ethereum to build on these networks. In essence, EVM networks are decentralized blockchain networks that utilize the Ethereum Virtual Machine to execute smart contracts and run decentralized applications. The Ethereum mainnet is the most well-known, but other EVM networks exist, including private networks, testnets, and other EVM compatible networks like Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, and xDai that offer enhanced scalability and lower fees. Block explorers, which serve as the Google for searching on a blockchain, enable developers and users to search for information such as balances, contracts, tokens, transactions, and API services. There are two different types of explorers available: one that combines Substrate and EVM, and another that is dedicated to the EVM ecosystem. Start developing your X-20 tokens now! --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://x-chain-1.gitbook.io/x-chain/token-x-chain/tokenomics/evm-chains.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.