Family chain differences – Mahesh is 60. Ram is 5 years younger than Mahesh and 4 years older than Raju. Babu is 6 years younger than Raju. What is the age difference between Mahesh and Babu?

Introduction / Context:
This is a chain of differences problem: each relation links to the next person. Compute each person step by step and then take the required difference at the end.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Mahesh = 60.
• Ram = Mahesh − 5 = 55.
• Ram is 4 years older than Raju ⇒ Raju = 55 − 4 = 51.
• Babu is 6 years younger than Raju ⇒ Babu = 51 − 6 = 45.

Concept / Approach:
Apply the offsets sequentially and preserve signs. Then compare the endpoint with the start point to get the requested difference.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Mahesh: 60.Ram: 55.Raju: 51.Babu: 45.Difference Mahesh − Babu = 60 − 45 = 15.

Verification / Alternative check:
Trace the offsets in a single expression: 60 − 5 − 4 − 6 = 45 for Babu; difference 15.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Other numbers misapply one of the offsets or reverse a sign.

Common Pitfalls:
Reading “older than” as “younger than” by mistake or skipping one link in the chain.

Final Answer:
15 years