OAR Reading Comprehension Flashcards

Read: 'The new sonar array dramatically increased detection range, but its power requirements strained the submarine's electrical system, forcing engineers to choose between stealth and endurance.' What trade-off does the passage describe?

Answer: Enhanced detection capability versus electrical system strain

The passage presents a direct trade-off: better sonar performance versus the strain it places on the electrical system.

A passage states: 'Protocol requires that distress signals be acknowledged within two minutes; failure to do so constitutes a breach of international maritime law.' If a vessel fails to respond within two minutes, what has occurred?

Answer: A violation of international maritime law

The passage explicitly states that failing to acknowledge within two minutes 'constitutes a breach of international maritime law.'

Read: 'Tidal patterns near the coast are influenced by the gravitational pull of the moon, the shape of the coastline, and local water depth. Predicting tides requires accounting for all three variables.' Which best states the passage's main point?

Answer: Accurate tide prediction requires considering multiple interacting factors

The passage emphasizes that three variables all influence tides, and all must be accounted for in predictions.

A passage reads: 'The briefing was cursory, covering only the most salient points without elaborating on logistics or contingencies.' The word 'cursory' most nearly means:

Answer: Hasty and superficial

'Cursory' means done quickly with little attention to detail, consistent with the briefing that skipped logistics and contingencies.

Read: 'Aircraft carriers are often described as force multipliers because they project air power far from home shores without relying on host-nation bases.' What does 'force multiplier' imply?

Answer: Something that greatly increases overall military capability

A 'force multiplier' is something that amplifies overall military effectiveness, which the carrier does by projecting power globally without needing land bases.

Read: 'The regulation was amended three times before reaching its final form, each revision narrowing the scope of permissible exceptions.' What happened to permissible exceptions over successive revisions?

Answer: They decreased as the scope was progressively narrowed

Each revision 'narrowed the scope of permissible exceptions,' meaning fewer exceptions were allowed over time.

A passage states: 'Morale aboard a vessel is as critical to mission success as mechanical readiness; a well-maintained ship crewed by dispirited sailors will underperform a less-maintained vessel crewed by motivated ones.' Which claim does the passage support?

Answer: Crew morale is a key factor in operational effectiveness

The passage directly argues that morale is as critical as mechanical readiness and can determine mission outcome.