Ages (linked siblings; present multiple): Kamal is five times as old as his sister Geeta, who is 2 years younger than her brother Ram. If Ram is 8, find Kamal's age.

Introduction / Context:This chain-of-relations problem is resolved by computing Geeta's age from Ram's, then scaling to Kamal via the stated multiple. It exercises careful reading of “younger than” phrasing and applying a single multiplicative step.

Given Data / Assumptions:Ram = 8; Geeta = Ram − 2 = 6; Kamal = 5 * Geeta.

Concept / Approach:Sequential substitution starting from the known terminal value (Ram) yields the other ages deterministically.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:All relations are satisfied with these values; no contradictions arise.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:They arise from misreading “2 years less” (using +2) or misapplying the five-times multiplier.

Common Pitfalls:Applying 5× to Ram instead of Geeta, or reversing the “2 years less than” direction.

Final Answer:30 years