Question

which statement describes the location of an earthquakes epicenter?
it is located using a single set of data.
it is determined by the mercalli scale.
it is determined by the arrival time of surface waves.
it is located at the point directly above the focus

Explanation:

The epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the focus (hypocenter) of an earthquake. A single set of data is insufficient to locate the epicenter (at least three seismograph stations' data are needed). The Mercalli Scale measures earthquake intensity (not epicenter location). Surface - wave arrival time is not used to locate the epicenter; instead, the time difference between P - waves and S - waves is used.

Answer:

It is located at the point directly above the focus.