Bitcoin: Is the OP_PUSHBYTES_X opcode always required after OP_RETURN?

The OP_PUSHBYTES Opcode: Unpacking its Role in OP_RETURN

In the Bitcoin blockchain, a fundamental opcode plays a crucial role in processing transactions. Two of the most critical opcodes are OP_RETURN and OP_PUSHBYTES. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of these opcodes and explore their interactions.

OP_RETURN: A Self-Depositing Transaction

The OP_RETURN opcode is used to create self-depositing transactions, where a transaction outputs nothing but an empty transaction output with a specific hash. This opcode has become a staple in Bitcoin’s scripting language, allowing users to transfer funds without creating unnecessary transaction fees or gas.

To illustrate its usage, let’s examine the example you provided:

tx6dfb16dd580698242bcfd8e433d557ed8c642272a368894de27292a8844a4e75

Here’s how OP_RETURN is used to create a self-depositing transaction:

• OP_RETURN opcode is executed, which outputs an empty transaction output.

• The resulting transaction output is used as the recipient of the self-deposited amount.

OP_PUSHBYTES: A Specialized Opcode for Data Transfer

The OP_PUSHBYTES opcode allows users to transfer data from one address to another without creating a new transaction. In other words, it enables the transfer of binary data, such as images or files, between accounts.

To demonstrate its usage, consider the following example:

tx6dfb16dd580698242bcfd8e433d557ed8c642272a368894de27292a8844a4e75

Notice that after OP_RETURN, an additional output is created with the hash of tx6dfb16dd580698242bcfd8e433d557ed8c642272a368894de27292a8844a4e75, which is generated using the OP_PUSHBYTES_11 opcode:

OP_RETURN

OP_PUSHBYTES_11 tx6dfb16dd580698242bcfd8e433d557ed8c642272a368894de27292a8844a4e75

This output can then be used to transfer data between accounts, such as an image or file.

Is OP_PUSHBYTES_X Always Required After OP_RETURN?

The answer is a bit more nuanced. While the OPUSHBYTES_11 opcode is often used in conjunction with OP_RETURN and OP_RETURN to create complex self-depositing transactions, it’s not always required after OP_RETURN.

Here are some scenarios where OP_PUSHBYTES may or may not be necessary:

• If you only want to transfer a small amount of data (e.g., an image) between accounts using OP_RETURN alone.

• When the recipient needs additional context information associated with the self-deposited transaction, such as the sender’s public key.

In contrast, when creating a more complex self-depositing transaction that requires transferring larger amounts of data or complex script hashes, the use of OP_PUSHBYTES can be beneficial to ensure proper execution and verification.

Conclusion

The OPUSHBYTES opcode plays a critical role in Bitcoin’s scripting language, enabling users to transfer binary data between accounts without creating new transactions. While it is often used in conjunction with OP_RETURN, its necessity depends on the specific use case and requirements of the transaction. By understanding how these opcodes interact, you’ll be better equipped to craft complex self-depositing transactions that are efficient, secure, and easy to understand.

Note: This article assumes a basic understanding of Bitcoin scripting language and is intended for educational purposes only. For further information on OP_RETURN and OP_PUSHBYTES, please consult the Bitcoin Core documentation or other reliable sources.

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