The point where rocks break and release energy in the form of seismic waves is called the focus or hypocenter.

Here's a breakdown:

* Focus (Hypocenter): This is the exact location within the Earth's crust where the rupture (breaking) of rocks begins. It's the source of the earthquake.

* Epicenter: This is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the focus. It's the point where the earthquake's effects are typically felt most strongly.

The energy released from the rupture travels outward from the focus as seismic waves, causing the ground to shake and potentially leading to damage.