Bitcoin mining is the digital process of creating new Bitcoin by solving complex mathematical puzzles. Think of it as a competitive race where miners use powerful computers to solve these puzzles. The first one to solve a puzzle gets to add a new block of transactions to the blockchain, the underlying technology of Bitcoin, and is rewarded with a certain amount of Bitcoin for their effort. This not only creates new Bitcoin but also verifies and secures transactions on the network, acting as a crucial mechanism to maintain and secure the integrity of the Bitcoin system. Essentially, mining is the backbone that allows Bitcoin to operate as a decentralized ledger, free from central authority control, ensuring transactions are transparent and secure.