OAR Reading Comprehension: Inferences Questions and Answers

Question 1

Read the following passage and answer the question:

"Historically, celestial navigation was an indispensable skill for mariners, requiring a sextant, a chronometer, and complex mathematical tables. A navigator's accuracy depended on a clear view of the horizon and celestial bodies, making overcast skies or foul weather significant impediments. The process was time-consuming and required a high degree of training and practice to master. While still taught as a backup, its primary role in commercial and military fleets has been superseded by modern electronic systems."

What can be inferred about modern electronic navigation systems compared to celestial navigation?

Accepted Answer

They are less dependent on weather conditions.

Answer

The passage explicitly states that celestial navigation was impeded by 'overcast skies or foul weather.' By stating that modern systems have superseded celestial navigation, it is logical to infer that these modern systems have overcome such limitations, making them less dependent on weather. The other options are contradicted or not supported by the text.

Question 2

Read the following passage and answer the question:

"The principle of buoyancy, first described by Archimedes, states that the upward buoyant force exerted on a body immersed in a fluid is equal to the weight of the fluid that the body displaces. A ship, despite being constructed from tons of steel which is far denser than water, floats because its hull is shaped to displace a large volume of water. If the weight of the displaced water is greater than the total weight of the ship, the ship floats. If it is less, the ship sinks."

Based on the passage, what can be inferred about a submarine's ability to submerge and surface?

Accepted Answer

It must have a method to alter its own weight or the volume of water it displaces.

Answer

The passage explains that floating is a balance between the ship's weight and the weight of the water it displaces. To submerge (sink) and surface (float) at will, a submarine must be able to control this balance. This implies it can change its own weight (by taking in or expelling water in ballast tanks) to become heavier or lighter than the water it displaces. The other options misinterpret the core principle described.

Question 3

Read the following passage and answer the question:

"In the early 20th century, naval strategists developed 'dazzle camouflage' not to hide a ship, but to confuse the enemy. The complex patterns of intersecting geometric shapes in contrasting colors were designed to make it difficult for an enemy to estimate a ship's type, speed, and heading. An enemy submarine commander using a periscope would have a hard time determining exactly where to aim a torpedo. This form of camouflage was a response to the advent of long-range naval gunnery and torpedo attacks where targeting accuracy was paramount."

Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

Accepted Answer

The primary goal of this camouflage was deception rather than concealment.

Answer

The passage explicitly states that dazzle camouflage was not meant 'to hide a ship, but to confuse the enemy' about its speed and direction. This directly supports the inference that its goal was deception (misleading the enemy's judgment) rather than concealment (making the ship invisible). The other statements are either not supported or contradicted by the text.

Question 4

Read the following passage and answer the question:

"The chain of command on a naval vessel is a rigid hierarchical structure designed for operational effectiveness. Orders flow from the top down, from the commanding officer to department heads, then to division officers, and so on. This structure ensures that commands are executed swiftly and without ambiguity, which is critical during high-stakes situations. While formal communication follows this strict path, informal collaboration between departments at similar levels is often necessary for routine problem-solving."

What is the most logical conclusion that can be drawn from this passage?

Accepted Answer

The hierarchy is intended to enhance clarity and efficiency in critical moments.

Answer

The passage states the purpose of the rigid structure is to ensure commands are 'executed swiftly and without ambiguity, which is critical during high-stakes situations.' This directly supports the inference that the hierarchy's primary purpose is to improve clarity and efficiency, especially when it matters most. The mention of 'informal collaboration' contradicts option A and B, and the passage does not discuss promotion criteria.

Question 5

Read the following passage and answer the question:

"A ship's 'watch' system divides the crew into sections, ensuring that all essential duties are continuously performed 24 hours a day, whether the vessel is at sea or in port. Each watch team is responsible for the ship's operation for a set period, after which they are relieved by the next team. This rotation prevents fatigue and ensures that personnel manning critical stations, such as the bridge or engine room, remain alert and responsive. The system has been refined over centuries to maximize both operational readiness and crew endurance."

Based on the passage, which of the following is most likely true about a ship's operational status?

Accepted Answer

Key operational areas of the ship are never left unattended.

Answer

The passage states that the watch system ensures duties are 'continuously performed 24 hours a day' and that teams relieve each other to man 'critical stations.' This leads to the logical inference that key areas are never left unattended. The text directly contradicts the other options by describing a rotational system where different sections of the crew work at different times.

OAR Test Practice Test

OAR Test Practice Test

OAR Reading Comprehension: Inferences Questions and Answers