Which body of water is part of the Panama Canal?

Lake Gatún is part of the Panama Canal and plays a crucial role in its operation. This artificial lake was created in the early 20th century during the construction of the canal and serves as a vital waterway that allows ships to transit through the canal's locks. Lake Gatún effectively provides the necessary water level for the locks to function, allowing vessels to traverse from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.

The body of water is significant because it helps facilitate the large elevation change between the two oceans—ships are lifted and lowered using locks that depend on the lake's water supply. Additionally, Lake Gatún is one of the largest artificial lakes in the world and contributes to the canal's overall ecosystem. Other bodies of water mentioned, such as Lake Managua, Lake Nicaragua, and Lake Issyk-Kul, are not connected to the Panama Canal and do not play a role in its functionality.