What is the best explanation for the prolonged preservation of a male human body found at high altitude that died over 5,300 years ago?

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The prolonged preservation of a male human body found at high altitude that died over 5,300 years ago is best explained by the fact that it became frozen from the cold temperature shortly after he died. At high altitudes, the temperatures are typically much colder, which can lead to rapid freezing of organic materials. This freezing process can significantly slow down the decomposition and preservation of tissues, thereby preserving the body in a remarkably intact state for thousands of years.

In low-temperature environments, the microbial activity that contributes to decomposition is drastically reduced, allowing for the preservation of soft tissues, hair, and other elements that would otherwise decay. While dehydration and burial practices can impact preservation, they do not account for the unique circumstances presented by high altitudes and sustained low temperatures, which are critical in the case discussed.