Circuit Depth

Definition ∞ Circuit depth is the number of sequential operations in a computational process within zero-knowledge proofs. It quantifies the longest path of dependent logical gates in a cryptographic circuit, particularly relevant in zero-knowledge proof systems. This measure directly affects the proof generation time and the computational resources required. A smaller circuit depth generally indicates more efficient proof construction.
Context ∞ Discussions around zero-knowledge technology in crypto news frequently reference circuit depth as a key metric for evaluating the efficiency and practicality of new privacy-enhancing solutions. Reducing circuit depth is a significant area of research, as it directly impacts the scalability and real-world utility of these advanced cryptographic applications. Improvements in this area are critical for broader adoption of privacy-preserving blockchain technologies.