How can Layer 2 systems use ZK proofs to scale on Kaspa?

Layer 2 systems can use ZK proofs to execute transactions off-chain and submit a compact proof of correct state transition to Kaspa's base layer for verification. A Layer 2 is a separate system that processes transactions away from the main blockchain to improve throughput. Instead of sending every transaction directly to Kaspa, a Layer 2 runs the work elsewhere, generates a zero-knowledge proof that every state change was valid, and posts only that proof to Kaspa — which then verifies it. Zero-knowledge proofs are mathematical constructs that let one party prove a statement is true without revealing the underlying data used to prove it. For a beginner, this matters because it means Kaspa could support far higher transaction volumes in the future without weakening the proof-of-work security of the base layer.