yes it is different because bitcoin is a digital currency that uses peer to peer networks and uses a database for its distribution. while ethereum is a chain platform block and functions like a virtual machine.
Bitcoin specialising in it's role as digital gold offering the dependable monetary system free from outbounded inflation and political intervention.
ETHEREUM evolving into world computer a Blockchain based programing language enabling code based contract and decentralized application .I think both coins face considerable challenges if order to realise their full potential. However, this industry tends to attract some of the worlds best and brightest minds, who invariably relish intellectual challenge.