Final answer:
The material condition XRAY provides the least degree of watertight integrity on a ship, allowing for more openings than the more restrictive YOKE and ZEBRA conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The material condition that provides the least degree of watertight integrity is indicated by the condition XRAY. On ships, particularly Navy vessels, material conditions of readiness designate the level of watertight integrity of the ship. There are several conditions, but primarily they are:
- ZEBRA: This condition represents the highest degree of watertight integrity. All watertight doors, hatches, scuttles, and ports are closed.
- YOKE: This condition provides a moderate degree of watertight integrity and is less restrictive than ZEBRA. Some accesses can be opened for routine work.
- XRAY: This condition offers the least degree of watertight integrity and is used during situations where the threat is minimal, like when the ship is in a safe harbor.
Therefore, when a ship is set to material condition XRAY, it means that most of the watertight doors and fittings may be left open for easier movement and work, which compromises the vessel's watertight integrity to some extent compared to the other conditions.