Consider the following statements regarding the Panama Canal: It is an...
Scientists recently stumbled upon a lost forest in the Panama Canal, dating back around 22 million years.
About Panama Canal:
- It is an artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean.
- The canal cuts across the Isthmus of Panama and is a conduit for maritime trade.
- It was cut through one of the narrowest saddles of the isthmus that joins North and South America.
- It is one of the two most strategic artificial waterways in the world, the other being the Suez Canal.
- It is approximately 80 kilometers long.
- It consists of a series of locks that raise and lower the water level to facilitate the passage of ships through the continental divide.
- History:
- France began work on the canal in 1881, but financial troubles and diseases made the initiative fail.
- The United States took over the project on May 4, 1904, and opened the canal on August 15, 1914, and then managed the waterway until 1999.
- On December 31, 1999, Panama took over full operation, administration, and maintenance of the Canal, in compliance with the Torrijos-Carter Treaties negotiated with the United States in 1977.
Hence only statement 1 is correct.
Consider the following statements regarding the Panama Canal: It is an...
Explanation:
The correct answer is option 'A' - 1 only. Let's understand why.
Statement 1: It is an artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean.
This statement is correct. The Panama Canal is an artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. It is located in Panama and provides a shortcut for ships traveling between the two oceans, eliminating the need to sail around South America. The canal consists of a series of locks that raise and lower ships as they pass through the canal, allowing them to navigate through the mountainous terrain of Panama.
Statement 2: The United States has full authority regarding the administration and operation of the canal.
This statement is incorrect. The United States used to have full authority over the administration and operation of the Panama Canal. However, this changed on December 31, 1999, when the canal was handed over to Panama as per the Torrijos-Carter Treaties signed in 1977. The treaties outlined a gradual transfer of control from the United States to Panama, with the Panamanian government assuming full authority and responsibility for the canal's operation and administration.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, statement 1 is correct as the Panama Canal is an artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. However, statement 2 is incorrect as the United States no longer has full authority over the administration and operation of the canal. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A' - 1 only.
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