Theory question 103
Transport, Trade and Tourism(a) In what fours ways is water transportation important in international trade? (b) Highlight four limitations of water transpiration (c) How can these limitations be overcome?
Show the model answer
(a) Cheapest way to carry bulky goods over long distances; carries the largest volume of world trade; links continents; handles heavy goods like oil, ores and grain; supports ports and jobs.
(b) Slow; restricted to waterways and coasts; seasonal low water, rapids and ice; silting of channels and ports; storms and piracy; needs costly port facilities.
(c) Dredging channels; building canals and locks; building dams to regulate flow; modern faster ships and containerisation; improved navigation aids and weather forecasts; better port facilities and security.
The stem's 'transpiration' is a misprint for transportation.