OAR OAR Reading Comprehension 3

Question 1

Read: 'Sailors in the 18th century used chronometers to determine longitude at sea. Before accurate timekeeping, longitude could not be reliably calculated, and ships frequently ran aground.' What problem did chronometers solve?

Accepted Answer

Inability to reliably calculate longitude

Answer

The passage states that accurate timekeeping via chronometers enabled reliable longitude calculation, solving a deadly navigation problem.

Question 2

A passage reads: 'The ensign's proposal was audacious but logistically untenable given the available resources.' The word 'untenable' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Unable to be carried out or defended

Answer

'Untenable' means not able to be maintained or defended; the context shows the plan cannot work with available resources.

Question 3

Read: 'A carrier strike group typically includes a carrier, cruisers for air defense, destroyers for anti-submarine warfare, and submarines for stealth operations. Each component fulfills a distinct defensive role.' Which best describes the group's structure?

Accepted Answer

Specialized vessels each assigned a different defensive role

Answer

The passage describes each vessel type as fulfilling a 'distinct defensive role,' emphasizing specialization within the group.

Question 4

A passage states: 'Coral reefs, though covering less than one percent of the ocean floor, support approximately 25 percent of all marine species.' What can be inferred from this?

Accepted Answer

Coral reefs are disproportionately rich in biodiversity

Answer

A tiny area supporting a quarter of all marine species demonstrates that coral reefs have disproportionately high biodiversity.

Question 5

Read: 'The petty officer spoke with unimpeachable authority on the subject, having served in that capacity for over two decades.' The word 'unimpeachable' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Beyond reproach or challenge

Answer

'Unimpeachable' means not able to be doubted or questioned; the officer's long experience reinforces this authority.

OAR Test Practice Test

OAR Test Practice Test

OAR OAR Reading Comprehension 3