History & Construction
In what year was the Panama Canal officially opened?
1914
What is the purpose of the lock system?
To raise and lower ships to overcome the difference in level between the oceans.
How has the expansion affected global shipping?
It has increased the canal's capacity and facilitated trade with larger ships.
What's the relationship between canal tolls and global trade?
They are related: if tolls are high, it can affect the volume of global trade
What is the significance of the Miraflores Locks?
They are the locks closest to the Pacific Ocean
Which country began the construction of the Panama Canal before the United States took over the project
France
What material are the locks primarily made of?
Concrete
What did the expansion include?
New (larger) locks,widening of some sections..
How did the canal influence the development of Panama?
It influenced its economic development and its position as a trade center
How has the canal impacted Panama's economy?
It has boosted its economy, tourism and its importance in world trade
What was the main engineering challenge in building the Panama Canal?
Describe how a ship goes through a lock.
The ship enters the lock, the gates close, water is pumped in to raise the level, the gates to the next lock open.
What's the name of the new locks?
Cocolí and Agua Clara Locks.
Name one way the canal boosts global trade.
It facilitates trade between the Atlantic and Pacific, reduces transportation costs
What's a popular tourist activity at the canal?
Watching ships pass through the locks.
What treaty did the United States and Panama sign to allow the construction of the Canal?
Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty
How many sets of locks are there?
3
What's a major economic benefit for Panama?
To allow larger ships (Neopanamax) to pass through
What's a major economic benefit for Panama
Toll revenues
What's the approximate length of the canal?
82 km (51 miles)
Approximately how many years did it take to build the Panama Canal?
10 years
What is the name of the artificial lake in the canal?
Gatun Lake
How did the canal affect shipping times?
To allow larger ships (Neopanamax) to pass through
How did the canal affect shipping times?
It drastically reduced travel times.
In what country in Central America is the canal located?
Panama