The Engineering Marvel of the Panama Canal

Ships get lifted 85 feet above sea level using a brilliant three-step lock system that's like

a giant water elevator. The Panama Canal connects two oceans at different heights, so massive chambers

fill with 26 million gallons of water to raise ships, then drain to lower them.

Each lock gate weighs 750 tons but floats on water, making them surprisingly easy to operate.

This engineering marvel moves 14,000 ships annually through what's essentially the world's most

expensive shortcut, saving vessels a 8,000-mile journey around South America.