What is the difference between miners and full nodes?
Correct answer
Answer D: Miners propose new blocks; full nodes check that those blocks follow the rules.
Quick explanation
Miners compete to propose new blocks. Full nodes independently check whether those blocks follow Bitcoin's rules.
Detailed explanation
Miners and full nodes perform different tasks. Miners assemble candidates for new blocks and compete through computational work to find suitable proof of work. A found block is proposed to the network.
Full nodes then independently check whether the received block and its transactions comply with their Bitcoin rules. Substantial computation alone does not make a rule-breaking block valid. A node may reject it, for example, if it claims more new bitcoin than allowed.
The roles can technically run together but are not the same. Using a full node does not require mining. Mining does not grant unlimited authority to change other participants' verification rules either.
Example or everyday application
A miner finds a block with sufficient proof of work but claims too many new bitcoin. Nodes applying the issuance rule still reject it.
Common misconception
Computing power is not permission to set arbitrary rules. Proof of work and the other validity rules are checked together.
Sources used
Bitcoin Developer Guide - Mining
This source is mainly intended for developers. The relevant information may therefore be harder to find.
Check original source