Find the youngest from layered age comparisons: Lakshmi is older than Meenu. Leela is older than Meenu but younger than Lakshmi. Latha is younger than both Meenu and Hari, and Hari is younger than Meenu. Who is the youngest?

Introduction / Context:
This problem provides two mini-chains: one among Lakshmi, Leela, Meenu; another among Meenu, Hari, Latha. We must merge them to find the youngest person.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Lakshmi > Leela > Meenu.
• Meenu > Hari > Latha (since Latha is younger than both Meenu and Hari, and Hari is younger than Meenu).
• All ages distinct and measured at the same time.

Concept / Approach:
Place the two chains on a single line anchored at Meenu. Everyone to the left of Meenu is older; everyone to the right is younger. Identify the extreme rightmost (youngest).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Any numeric assignment consistent with the inequalities (e.g., 50, 45, 40, 35, 30 years respectively) preserves the order; Latha remains youngest.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Lakshmi/Leela/Meenu/Hari are each explicitly older than at least one other person; none can be the youngest.

Common Pitfalls:
Misreading “younger than both Meenu and Hari” as “younger than either,” which would weaken the constraint. It is a strict placement below both.

Final Answer:
Latha