A canal is a man-made waterway that is designed to allow boats and ships to travel from one place to another. Canals can also be used for irrigation, helping to water crops in agricultural areas. They often connect rivers, lakes, or oceans, making transportation easier and more efficient. One famous example of a canal is the Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. This remarkable engineering feat saves ships from having to navigate around the southern tip of South America, significantly reducing travel time and distance. Canals have played a crucial role in trade and commerce throughout history.