A student researching the Panama Canal has taken the following notes:

• The Panama Canal opened in 1914 after 10 years of construction • The canal spans 50 miles across the Isthmus of Panama • Ships using the canal avoid a 7,000-mile journey around South America • Approximately 14,000 ships pass through the canal annually • A major expansion completed in 2016 allows larger ships to transit

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The student wants to emphasize the canal's impact on global shipping. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

A

The Panama Canal spans 50 miles across the Isthmus of Panama and opened in 1914.

B

A major expansion completed in 2016 allows larger ships to transit through the Panama Canal.

C

By allowing ships to bypass the 7,000-mile journey around South America, the Panama Canal serves 14,000 vessels annually.

D

Construction of the Panama Canal took 10 years, finally opening in 1914.

Correct Answer: C

Choice C. 7,000 miles saved and 14,000 ships annually show shipping impact.