What time interval does the 1:24,000 map scale approximate for a person walking?

The correct choice indicates that a person can walk 2,000 feet in approximately 6 minutes. This aligns well with the understanding of how distance and walking speed interact on a topographic map with a 1:24,000 scale.

When using a 1:24,000 map scale, each inch on the map represents 2,000 feet in the real world. If an average walking speed is considered to be around 3 miles per hour, that translates to 4,400 feet per hour. By breaking that down, a person could walk about 2,000 feet in roughly 6 minutes.

This understanding is essential for individuals involved in search and rescue operations, as it enables them to estimate how long it will take to traverse various terrains when planning their searches effectively. Thus, knowing how map scales correspond to real distances and the average walking pace significantly aids in mission planning and execution.