The correct option is (c).
Explanation
An earthquake is the shaking of the surface of the Earth resulting from a sudden release of energy in the Earth's lithosphere that creates seismic waves.
- Statement 1 is Correct: The point within the Earth's crust where the earthquake rupture starts is known as the focus or hypocenter. The energy released at this point generates seismic waves that travel in all directions.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The point on the Earth's surface vertically above the focus is called the epicenter, not the focus. It is usually the point where the greatest damage occurs.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Seismic waves travel outwards from the focus. However, in the context of surface impact, vibrations are often described as traveling outwards from the epicenter as waves. The damage is typically greatest at the epicenter and decreases as the distance from the center increases.
Key Takeaway: The focus (hypocenter) is the origin of the earthquake inside the Earth, while the epicenter is the point on the surface directly above it.