Hipotsentri

Hipotsentri is a term used in seismology to denote the hypocenter of an earthquake, the point within the Earth where rupture begins. It is distinct from the epicenter, the point on the Earth’s surface directly above the hypocenter. In English, the equivalent term is hypocenter (plural hypocenters); hipotsentri is the form used in some Romance- and Slavic-language contexts.

Determination and meaning: Hypotsentri are located by analyzing arrival times of seismic waves at networks of seismometers. By measuring P-wave and S-wave travel times and applying a velocity model of the Earth’s interior, scientists invert the data to estimate the coordinates (latitude, longitude) and depth of the origin, as well as the origin time. The accuracy of the depth, and thus the hypocenter, depends on station coverage, wave speeds, and the complexity of geological structures.

Depth and distribution: Earthquakes are classified by depth as shallow (up to about 70 km), intermediate (about 70–300 km), and deep (about 300–700 km). Deep earthquakes occur mainly in subduction zones and reflect different tectonic processes than shallow events. Hypocenter catalogs help scientists study fault geometry, regional tectonics, and the mechanics of rupture.

Applications: Hypocenter data underpin seismic hazard assessments, aftershock analyses, and tectonic research. They are plotted on maps and cross-sections to reveal fault planes and seismicity patterns. While hipotsentri is used in some languages, English literature typically uses hypocenters; terminology varies by region and language.