Someone wants to send you bitcoin. Does your wallet need to be switched on or connected to the internet at that moment?
Correct answer
Answer C: No. Bitcoin can be sent to your address even when your wallet is offline.
Quick explanation
The bitcoin are recorded on the Bitcoin network, not stored on your device. When you reconnect your wallet later, it can update and display the incoming payment.
Detailed explanation
In an on-chain payment, bitcoin are not sent as files to the recipient's device. The transaction creates a new spendable amount in the shared transaction history, with spending conditions matching the receiving address.
The device holding the wallet need not be switched on. When it later retrieves network data, the wallet can recognize matching payments and update the displayed balance. Spending later requires the necessary keys or signing means.
Being offline does not replace address verification. The receiving address must first be generated correctly and associated with the intended recipient. An on-chain receiving address also differs from other payment routes such as a Lightning invoice.
Common misconception
A switched-off wallet does not automatically prevent receipt. The wallet manages access, not bitcoin as local coin files.
Sources used
FAQ – Bitcoin
Check original sourceBitcoin Developer Guide - Payment Processing
This source is mainly intended for developers. The relevant information may therefore be harder to find.
Check original source