Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Sohan
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This is a classic “problems on ages” ordering question. We are not asked for numerical ages; instead, we must use the given multiplicative relationships to rank the people from oldest to youngest and identify the oldest individual.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Translate words to proportional relations. If Shyam = s, then Ram = 2s. If Ram is half of Sohan, then Sohan = 2 * Ram = 4s. The statement “Shyam is older than Mohan” only says Mohan is below Shyam; it does not change who is overall oldest because the Sohan–Ram–Shyam chain already fixes the top end of the order.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Let Shyam = s.Then Ram = 2s (given).Since Ram is half of Sohan, Sohan = 2 * (2s) = 4s.Therefore, in descending order: Sohan (4s) > Ram (2s) > Shyam (s) > Mohan (below Shyam).Hence, Sohan is the oldest.
Verification / Alternative check:
Pick a simple number: let Shyam = 10. Then Ram = 20 and Sohan = 40. Any Mohan that is younger than Shyam (say, 9) maintains the order. The oldest remains Sohan (40).
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “double” and “half,” or assuming “older than Mohan” implies Mohan could be the oldest; that statement only places Mohan below Shyam.
Final Answer:
Sohan
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