ZK Circuit

Definition ∞ A ZK Circuit, or Zero-Knowledge circuit, is a mathematical representation of a computation designed to be proven using zero-knowledge proofs. It translates a program or a set of conditions into an arithmetic circuit, which is then used by a prover to generate a proof and by a verifier to check its validity. This circuit precisely defines the operations and constraints that must hold true for the statement being proven. It is the core component for ZKP applications.
Context ∞ ZK circuits are a central concept in news and technical explanations of zero-knowledge proofs and their applications in blockchain scalability and privacy. Discussions about ZK-rollups, private transactions, or verifiable computation often refer to the design and optimization of these circuits. The complexity and efficiency of a ZK circuit directly impact the performance and cost of generating and verifying zero-knowledge proofs, a critical factor for adoption.