> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.merlinchain.io/merlin-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.merlinchain.io/merlin-docs/about-merlin/key-modules/two-step-zkp-submission-mechanism.md).

# Two-Step ZKP Submission Mechanism

Merlin Chain will adopt the two-step Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKP) submission mechanism proposed by Lumoz to achieve decentralized Proof of Work (PoW):

<figure><img src="/files/DZFS59u09s2O66QYSGJn" alt=""><figcaption><p>Merlin's ZKP Submission Mechanism</p></figcaption></figure>

1. **Hash Submission**
   * The prover generates a ZKP for a specific sequence and first calculates the hash of the proof/address.
   * This hash, along with the prover's address, is submitted to a chain-level smart contract.
   * The proof represents the ZKP of the sequence, while the address identifies the prover.
   * Initial hash submissions by provers are unrestricted and are processed and accepted within the following T+10 blocks. After the T+11 block, new provers are not allowed to submit additional hashes.
2. **ZKP Submission**
   * After the T+11 block, any prover can submit the complete ZKP.
   * A verified ZKP can be used to validate all previously submitted hashes.
   * Provers will receive PoW rewards based on their staked proportion.

This mechanism effectively incentivizes miners to remain online, ensuring a stable computational environment, further enhancing the network's security and reliability:

* **Prevents Race Attacks**: Prevents malicious participants from attempting to disrupt or damage the system by quickly submitting a large number of proofs.
* **Encourages Stable Participation**: Rewards incentivize miners to provide stable and continuous ZKP computation power, enhancing the network's security and reliability.
* **Ensures System Efficiency**: Ensures efficiency and fairness, avoiding resource wastage and network congestion, while improving overall system performance and stability.