I don't understand what it means when people saying things such as "(Ethereum) applications can interact with each other on the blockchain, so a library of useful functionality will gradually build up". The second part is fine, but how will applications interact with each other. Does that just mean features from created applications can be integrated into new applications?
Also, it is my understanding that the code behind a dapp is open source? So anyone can see and copy what I've spent my time producing?
Is there a way to conceal code, while not interfering with the other functions of Ethereum?
I understand that all apps created on Ethereum are connected to its blockchain, how will it manage thousands of connections?
Does the degree of security of the Ethereum blockchain increase with connections?
That is, is the blockchain reliant on connections to be secure?
I thought it's security was based on some sort of cryptographic innovation (inspired by Satoshi's bitcoin whitepaper).
If this is correct, then why would I even need to build the dapp on ethereum's blockchain.
If a customizable blockchain code was released for free online in a pre-existing language which can be run, then if I could just copy it and modify it according to my interests, would that not have the same effect as creating and running an app on ethereum's blockchain.
Are the details of contracts on the blockchain public? Or just the creation of the contract.
If so, is it possible to conceal the details of contracts?
Also is it possible to have a private blockchain, where a central entity controls a party's connection to the blockchain?