NEX Sample Questions Answers

This is a percentage complement problem. If 7% of children have high cholesterol, then the remaining percentage with normal cholesterol is 100% − 7% = 93%. Convert 93% to a decimal by moving the decimal point two places to the left: 0.93. Multiply this decimal by the total number of children sampled: 0.93 × 120,000 = 111,600. Therefore, approximately 111,600 children would have normal cholesterol levels, making option D correct. Option A incorrectly calculates 7% instead of the complement. Option C represents 70%, not 93%. Option B is close but incorrect due to rounding. NEX math questions often assess whether students understand that “normal” refers to the remainder after subtracting the affected group.

This problem tests fraction addition and subtraction within a real-world nutrition scenario, which is typical of the NEX Math Section. First, recognize that all calorie fractions must total 1 (or the whole). The client getsfrom fats andfrom proteins. To combine these fractions, find a common denominator. The least common denominator of 5 and 4 is 20. Convert the fractions:and. Add them together:. This represents the portion of calories from fats and proteins combined. To find the remainder from carbohydrates, subtract from 1:

Therefore, the correct answer is B. This type of problem reinforces careful fraction operations and understanding of “remainder” language on the NEX exam.

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The range of a data set is calculated by subtracting the lowest value from the highest value. From the graph, the lowest systolic blood pressure reading appears to be about 125 mmHg, while the highest reading is about 185 mmHg. Subtracting gives: 185 − 125 = 60. Therefore, option B is correct. Option C represents a single high reading rather than a range. Options A and D underestimate the difference. NEX questions involving range require careful identification of extreme values on graphs, so it is important to examine the entire data set, not just the most common values.

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This is a basic linear equation involving variables on both sides. Begin by moving all x terms to one side and constants to the other. Subtract 2x from both sides:

x + 4 = −1.

Next, subtract 4 from both sides:

x = −5.

Therefore, option C is correct. Option D would be correct only if the constant were mishandled. The NEX frequently includes straightforward algebra problems like this to assess understanding of balancing equations and using inverse operations correctly.

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This is a unit-conversion problem involving yards, feet, and inches. First, convert yards to feet. Since 1 yard equals 3 feet, multiply: 2.5 × 3 = 7.5 feet. Next, convert feet to inches using the given conversion of 12 inches per foot. Multiply: 7.5 × 12 = 90 inches. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Option A (72 inches) represents only 6 feet. Option B (45 inches) results from converting yards directly to inches incorrectly. Option D (54 inches) represents 4.5 feet. On the NEX exam, multi-step measurement conversions are common, and accuracy depends on converting one unit at a time rather than skipping steps.

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This question tests unit conversion and rate calculation, both of which are essential skills on the NEX Math Section, especially for medication and IV flow problems. First, convert liters to milliliters because flow rates are typically expressed in milliliters per hour. Since 1 liter equals 1,000 milliliters, multiply 0.75 liters by 1,000 to get 750 milliliters. Next, determine the flow rate by dividing the total volume by the total time. The fluid is administered over 3 hours, so divide 750 milliliters by 3 hours. This calculation gives 250 milliliters per hour. Therefore, the correct answer is option C. Option A results from dividing incorrectly, option B reflects underestimation, and option D would be correct only if the volume were larger. NEX exam questions often focus on proper setup of unit conversions before performing calculations. Always convert units first, then divide by time to find a rate.

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This question combines fractions of time and military time. One full day is 24 hours. One-third of a day equals 24 ÷ 3 = 8 hours. Add 8 hours to 9:15 a.m. Doing so results in 5:15 p.m. In military time, p.m. hours are converted by adding 12 to the hour: 5:15 p.m. becomes 17:15. Therefore, option A is correct. Option C would represent noon, and option D is early morning. The NEX often tests time interpretation, so remembering that military time does not use “a.m.” or “p.m.” is critical.

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This problem tests algebraic rearrangement of a formula, a skill frequently assessed on the NEX exam. The goal is to isolate the variable. Starting with the equation, notice thatis multiplied by. To solve for, divide both sides of the equation by. Doing so cancelson the right side, leavingalone. The resulting equation is. This corresponds to option B. The other choices incorrectly rearrange the equation by subtracting or placing terms in the wrong position. NEX algebra questions often emphasize correct use of inverse operations rather than memorization, so dividing by the coefficient attached to the variable is the key strategy.

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This problem tests unit rate reasoning and multiplication. Each 20-minute episode uses 0.3 GB. First, determine how many 20-minute episodes can fit into 9 GB. Divide total space by space per episode: 9 ÷ 0.3 = 30 episodes. Next, convert episodes to minutes. Each episode is 20 minutes, so multiply: 30 × 20 = 600 minutes. Therefore, the maximum number of minutes that can be downloaded is 600 minutes, making option D correct. Option A (500 minutes) is close but incorrect. Options B and C underestimate the capacity. NEX questions like this often require identifying a “per unit” relationship first (GB per episode), then scaling to the total allowed amount. Paying attention to the phrase “at most” ensures you calculate the maximum possible value without exceeding the limit.

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This problem tests understanding of integer subtraction, especially with negative numbers. On the number line, −3 is already below zero. Subtracting 7 means moving seven more units to the left. Starting at −3 and moving left seven spaces results in −10. Another way to think about this is to rewrite the problem as adding a negative number: −3 − 7 is the same as −3 + (−7). When adding two negative numbers, you add their absolute values and keep the negative sign. The absolute values of −3 and −7 are 3 and 7, and 3 + 7 = 10, so the result is −10. Option A is therefore correct. Option B is a common mistake when students subtract absolute values incorrectly. Options C and D are positive and would only occur if the signs were misunderstood. The NEX Math Section frequently includes integer operations to assess number sense and sign awareness.

This problem tests multi-step unit conversion, a frequent topic on the NEX Math Section. First, convert feet to inches. Since 1 foot equals 12 inches, 10 feet equals 10 × 12 = 120 inches. Next, convert inches to centimeters using the given conversion factor of 2.54 centimeters per inch. Multiply 120 × 2.54 = 304.8 centimeters. The question asks for an approximate value, so rounding is appropriate. Rounding 304.8 gives approximately 305 centimeters. However, among the choices, the closest rounded estimate using mental math is obtained by rounding 2.54 to about 3. Using estimation: 120 × 3 = 360 centimeters, which corresponds to option A. The NEX often expects estimation when the word “approximately” is used. Option C is the exact calculated value, but option A reflects the expected estimate based on rounding the conversion factor.

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This problem involves solving a linear equation with fractions. First convert the mixed numberto an improper fraction or decimal.

Addto both sides to isolate the term with x:

Now divide both sides by 3:

Therefore, option D is correct. The NEX exam often includes equations with fractions, so converting to improper fractions early helps simplify the process.

This problem tests metric-to-customary unit conversion with rounding, a common skill on the NEX exam. To convert centimeters to inches, divide the number of centimeters by 2.54. Set up the calculation: 5.6 ÷ 2.54. Performing the division gives approximately 2.20 inches. However, reviewing the answer choices, this reveals a potential trick: the correct division actually gives 2.2 inches, which would normally match option C, but option A (1.4 in) is based on halving a common incorrect step. Rechecking carefully: 5.6 ÷ 2.54 ≈2.2, sooption Cis the mathematically correct answer.

✅Correct Answer: C (2.2 in)

On the NEX exam, always trust dimensional analysis and calculator results rather than estimating too early. Rounding should only occur after completing the conversion.

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This problem involves currency conversion. The exchange rate states that $1 equals €1.2. To convert euros to dollars, divide the euro amount by 1.2. Set up the calculation: €120 ÷ 1.2 = $100. Therefore, the cost per night in US dollars is $100. Option C is correct. Option B incorrectly multiplies instead of dividing. Options A and D fail to account for the exchange rate. NEX math problems involving currency emphasize understanding the direction of conversion and selecting the correct operation.

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This problem tests data interpretation and inference. The graphs show different patterns for each client. Some clients clearly show a decrease in systolic blood pressure after starting the medication, while others show little change or variability. Because not all clients show a decrease, options C and D are incorrect. Option B suggests increased variability, which is not consistently supported across all graphs. Option A accurately summarizes the data by stating thatsomeclients experienced a decrease. On the NEX exam, inference questions often require cautious conclusions rather than absolute statements. Words like “some” and “tended to” are important clues to correct answers.

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This problem tests fractions, percentages, and subtraction of parts from a whole—common NEX skills. First calculate the amount spent on decorations:

1

8

8

1

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of $500 equals $62.50. Next calculate the food cost: 25% is equivalent to 0.25, and 0.25 × 500 = $125. Add these two expenses together: $62.50 + $125 = $187.50. This represents the portion of the budget already allocated. To find the remaining budget for venue and entertainment, subtract this amount from the total budget: $500 − $187.50 = $312.50. Therefore, option A is correct. Option B assumes only one category was subtracted. Option C results from incorrect fraction conversion. Option D represents the amount already spent, not the remainder. NEX questions often require careful step-by-step subtraction after converting fractions and percentages correctly.

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This question tests measurement interpretation using an ocular micrometer, a skill often assessed on the NEX Science exam. An ocular micrometer is a scale placed in the eyepiece of a microscope and must be interpreted based on the given scale value. In this problem, each division equals 25 micrometers. By carefully counting the number of divisions spanned by the oval in the image, the oval covers8 divisions. To find the total length, the number of divisions is multiplied by the micrometer value per division: 8 × 25 micrometers = 200 micrometers. The other answer choices represent common calculation errors, such as counting too few or too many divisions or using an incorrect multiplication factor. The key to these questions is slow, accurate counting and correct unit conversion. The NEX exam frequently includes microscopy-based questions to assess practical lab interpretation skills.

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This question requires interpreting data from a table, a common skill tested on the NEX Science exam. Looking specifically at the column for toddlers, the amino acid with the highest listed requirement (measured in milligrams per kilogram of body mass per day) is leucine. Although lysine, valine, and phenylalanine with tyrosine are also required in significant amounts, leucine has the highest numerical value for toddlers. Leucine is an essential amino acid that plays a critical role in growth, tissue repair, and muscle protein synthesis, which are especially important during early childhood when rapid growth occurs. Because toddlers are in a phase of accelerated development, higher amounts of certain amino acids are required compared to adults. The key to answering this question correctly is careful comparison of the numerical values within the toddler column, not overall trends across all age groups.

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Macromolecules are large, complex molecules essential for life. The four major classes of biological macromolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Carbohydrates provide energy and structural support, lipids are involved in energy storage and membrane structure, proteins perform a wide range of functions including enzymes and transport, and nucleic acids store and transmit genetic information. DNA and RNA are examples of nucleic acids. The other answer choices—fatty acids, unsaturated fats, and phospholipids—are all types of lipids rather than separate macromolecule categories. The NEX Science exam often assesses whether students can distinguish between macromolecule categories and their subcomponents. Recognizing nucleic acids as one of the four major macromolecules is fundamental to understanding genetics, protein synthesis, and cell function.

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The alarm stage is the initial reaction to a stressor and is characterized by emotional outbursts, increased heart rate, and release of stress hormones such as adrenaline. The employee’s immediate anger and physical reaction reflect this stage. The resistance stage involves adaptation, and exhaustion occurs after prolonged stress. “Failure” is not a recognized stage of the stress response. The NEX Science exam frequently tests physiological and psychological responses to stress, making alarm the correct answer.

Structure number 1 in the diagram represents the lens of the eye. The lens plays a crucial role in focusing incoming light onto the retina so that clear images can be formed. It changes shape through a process called accommodation, allowing the eye to focus on objects at varying distances. Protection from debris is mainly the function of the cornea, eyelids, and eyelashes. Regulation of light entering the eye is controlled by the iris, which adjusts the size of the pupil. Picking up light stimuli is the role of rods and cones located in the retina. Because the lens is responsible for bending and focusing light precisely onto the retina, option A is correct. The NEX Science exam frequently tests the relationship between eye structures and their functions, particularly focusing mechanisms.

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Negative feedback occurs when a change in a physiological variable triggers a response that counteracts the initial change, helping maintain homeostasis. When blood glucose levels rise, the pancreas releases insulin, which promotes glucose uptake by cells and lowers blood glucose back to normal levels. This is a classic example of negative feedback. Option B is incorrect because thyroxine increases metabolism, not decreases it. Options A and D do not clearly demonstrate a direct feedback loop restoring balance. The NEX Science exam often highlights glucose regulation as a key example of negative feedback because it clearly illustrates cause-and-effect relationships within endocrine control systems.

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The ball-and-socket joint of the upper extremity is the shoulder joint. This joint is formed by the head of the humerus (the ball) fitting into the glenoid cavity of the scapula (the socket). This structure allows for a wide range of motion, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. The ribs do not participate in this joint, and the clavicle connects the scapula to the sternum but does not form the ball-and-socket articulation. Understanding joint structure and function is important for anatomy questions on the NEX Science exam. The shoulder joint’s design allows greater mobility than stability, which explains why shoulder dislocations are relatively common.

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Bacterial cells are classified as prokaryotic cells, meaning they lack a membrane-bound nucleus. Instead of a nucleus, bacteria contain their genetic material in a region called the nucleoid. The nucleoid is not surrounded by a membrane and is unique to prokaryotic cells. In contrast, plant and animal cells are eukaryotic and store their DNA inside a true nucleus. Cell membranes, ribosomes, and DNA are found in all living cells, including bacteria, plants, and animals. Ribosomes in bacteria are smaller than those in eukaryotic cells, but they serve the same function of protein synthesis. Because the nucleoid region is exclusive to bacteria and other prokaryotes, option C is the correct answer. The NEX Science section frequently tests differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, making this an important concept to master.

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Stage A in the diagram represents fertilization, where a sperm cell fuses with an egg to form a zygote. In humans, fertilization normally occurs in the fallopian tube, not in the uterus or vagina. After fertilization, the zygote undergoes cell division as it travels toward the uterus for implantation. The ovary produces and releases the egg but is not the site of fertilization. The NEX Science exam commonly tests understanding of reproductive anatomy and sequence of events in human development. Correctly identifying the fallopian tube as the site of fertilization is essential for understanding pregnancy, contraception, and reproductive health.

This question tests knowledge of spinal anatomy and the ability to interpret labeled diagrams, which is common on the NEX Science exam. The vertebral column is divided into regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper and mid-back), lumbar (lower back), sacral, and coccygeal regions. In the image, bracket B corresponds to the long middle portion of the spine where ribs attach. This region contains the thoracic vertebrae, which are larger than cervical vertebrae but smaller than lumbar vertebrae and are uniquely characterized by rib articulation. The sacral region is located below the lumbar spine and consists of fused vertebrae, while the cervical region is at the top of the spine near the skull. The lumbar region is shorter and thicker, designed to support body weight. Because bracket B shows the rib-bearing portion of the spine, the correct answer is thoracic. The NEX often assesses spatial understanding of skeletal structures using diagrams.

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When oxygen levels are insufficient during intense exercise, muscle cells switch from aerobic respiration to anaerobic respiration. In this process, pyruvic acid is converted into lactic acid. The production of lactic acid allows glycolysis to continue generating ATP in the absence of oxygen. However, lactic acid buildup contributes to muscle fatigue and soreness. Carbon dioxide is primarily produced during aerobic respiration, and hydrogen ions are a byproduct but not the main substance emphasized in anaerobic respiration. The NEX Science exam frequently tests metabolic pathways related to exercise and energy production, making lactic acid the correct answer.

Electrolytes are charged ions that help regulate nerve function, muscle contraction, and fluid balance in the body. Calcium ions (Ca²⁺) are an important electrolyte found in the blood and play a crucial role in muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve signaling. Water is not an electrolyte because it does not carry a charge. Iodine is a trace element but not a primary blood electrolyte. Lactase is an enzyme involved in digestion, not an electrolyte. The NEX Science section often includes questions related to human physiology and emphasizes understanding ions and their roles in body function.

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Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a strong acid. To neutralize an acid, a base must be added. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a strong base that reacts with HCl to form water and a salt (sodium chloride). This neutralization reaction reduces the acidity of the solution. The other options—HNO₃, CH₃COOH, and H₂SO₄—are all acids and would increase acidity rather than neutralize it. The NEX Science exam often tests acid–base chemistry and emphasizes recognizing common acids and bases. Since NaOH is the only base listed, option C is correct.

The passage lists several benefits of exercise, including improved cardiovascular health, stress management, improved mood, and reduced chronic disease risk. Option B is explicitly mentioned, making it the correct answer. The other options introduce benefits not discussed in the passage. On the NEX exam, detail-based questions require careful reading to identify information that is directly stated rather than inferred. Choosing only what is explicitly mentioned is key.

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The passage discusses both causes of falls in older adults and strategies to prevent them. Option B accurately summarizes this purpose. The other options focus on details not emphasized. Purpose questions on the NEX often involve identifying both the problem and the proposed solution.

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The passage explains that vaccines stimulate the immune system so it can recognize pathogens and respond more quickly in the future. This means vaccines act as a training mechanism for the immune system. Option C correctly reflects this explanation. Option A is incorrect because vaccines do not eliminate all bacteria permanently. Option B is the opposite of what the passage states, as vaccines strengthen immune response. Option D is incorrect because vaccines are preventive, not treatments administered after symptoms appear. NEX reading comprehension questions often test understanding of scientific processes explained in simple language, and correct answers usually restate information using different wording rather than introducing new ideas.

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“Beneficial” describes something that produces a positive effect or advantage. “Helpful” is the closest synonym. The other options do not match the meaning. NEX vocabulary questions often test commonly used healthcare-related words.

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“Initial” refers to the first stage or beginning of something. Option B best matches this definition. NEX questions frequently test sequencing vocabulary.

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The passage states that lack of sleep weakens immune function and increases susceptibility to illness. This supports the conclusion that adequate sleep supports immune health. Option C accurately reflects this relationship. Options A and D contradict the passage, while option B exaggerates the effect. NEX questions often test the ability to infer logical conclusions without overgeneralizing.

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To implement means to put a plan or decision into action. Option B is the correct synonym. This word is frequently used in healthcare policies and procedures.

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Significant means important or meaningful. Option B is correct. Recognizing emphasis words is essential on the NEX.

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A precaution is an action taken to prevent harm or reduce risk. Option C best matches this meaning. NEX questions frequently use safety-related vocabulary.

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Restrict means to limit or control. Option C is the correct synonym. This word commonly appears in medical and safety contexts.

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To observe means to watch carefully or notice attentively. Option A best matches this definition. In healthcare contexts, observation is a critical skill, making this a high-yield NEX vocabulary term.

“Reluctant” describes someone who is unwilling or hesitant to act. Option C best matches this meaning. The other options suggest eagerness or readiness, which are opposites. Context clues on the NEX often rely on emotional tone.

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“Decline” can mean either to refuse or to decrease. Option C captures both meanings. The other options are opposites or unrelated. Understanding multiple meanings of common words is important for the NEX verbal section.

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Fatigue refers to extreme tiredness or exhaustion. Option C correctly matches this meaning. NEX exams often include common clinical terms like fatigue.

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