CANAL LOCKS Meaning and
Definition
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Canal locks are hydraulic structures used in man-made canals and waterways to overcome changes in elevation. They consist of chambers or enclosures that are filled with water, allowing boats or other vessels to navigate through sections of different water levels. These locks are essential for enabling transportation and the efficient movement of vessels along a canal system.
The purpose of canal locks is to raise or lower boats from one water level to another, compensating for variations in terrain such as hills or slopes. The lock chambers are typically rectangular in shape, with gates at each end to control water flow. To operate a canal lock, the boat enters the bottom chamber, and the gates are then closed, isolating the chamber. Water is then either released or added into the chamber, which causes the boat to rise or descend to the desired water level. Once the water levels match on both sides of the gates, the opposite gates are opened, allowing the boat to proceed to the next section of the canal.
Canal locks are often composed of concrete or masonry walls, ensuring stability and strength. Some locks may also incorporate additional features like lush vegetation or picturesque surroundings to enhance their aesthetic appeal.
Overall, canal locks play a vital role in facilitating water transport by allowing vessels to navigate through changes in terrain, ensuring reliable and efficient transportation along canal systems.
Etymology of CANAL LOCKS
The word "canal locks" comes from a combination of two words: "canal" and "locks".
1. Canal: The term "canal" originates from the Latin word "canalis", meaning "water channel" or "pipe". This Latin word derived from "canna", which referred to a hollow reed or tube, eventually giving rise to the idea of a man-made waterway.
2. Locks: The word "locks" has its roots in Old English, specifically the word "loc" or "locc", meaning "fastening" or "enclosure". Over time, this term extended to include devices used to secure or obstruct passages, such as gates designed to control water levels in canals.
