When did Krakauer reach the summit and when did he start heading down?

• A. He reached it at 1:12 and started heading down at 1:17, five minutes later.
• B. He reached it at 1:20 and started heading down at 1:25, five minutes later.
• C. He reached it at 1:15 and started heading down at 1:20, five minutes later.
• D. He reached it at 1:10 and started heading down at 1:15, five minutes later.

Answer: (A)

This question checks your ability to track a precise timeline in Krakauer’s account and understand the sequence of events on the climb. The correct option places the summit at 1:12 p.m. and then shows the descent starting five minutes later, at 1:17 p.m. That five-minute gap reflects the brief period spent on the summit before turning back, which matches the described sequence in the narrative. The other options shift either the summit time or the moment the descent begins, which breaks the established timeline of events.