What is the difference between the focus and epicenter of an earthquake?

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What is the difference between the focus and epicenter of an earthquake?

The focus and epicenter are both important terms used to describe different aspects of an earthquake. The focus refers to the exact location within the Earth's crust where the earthquake originates or starts. It is also known as the hypocenter. The focus can be at varying depths, ranging from shallow to deep within the Earth's crust.

On the other hand, the epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the focus. It is the location on the Earth's surface that is closest to the origin of the earthquake. The epicenter is typically the point where the earthquake's effects, such as shaking and damage, are most strongly felt.

In summary, the focus is the actual location within the Earth where the earthquake originates, while the epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the focus.