Into Thin Air Practice Test

What did Krakauer ask Andy Harris to do while descending?

Turn off the oxygen valve Turn up his oxygen flow Take a photo Bag a rock for proof

Correct Answer:

Turn off the oxygen valve

Explanation:

Managing oxygen use is crucial on extreme altitude descents. Oxygen becomes a precious resource, and climbers often conserve by limiting flow when it isn’t needed for every moment of movement. Krakauer’s request to Harris to turn off his oxygen valve reflects this mindset: cutting off oxygen when it isn’t actively required helps preserve the remaining supply for the dangerous parts of the descent and for others who still depend on it. In the harsh conditions they faced, every bit of saved oxygen could make a real difference in safety. Taking a photo would distract from immediate safety, and bagging a rock for proof isn’t relevant to the descent’s needs. Turning up the oxygen flow would waste scarce supply, not conserve it.

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