The state can lease lands for mineral purposes for a period of ____ years.

The correct answer is that the state can lease lands for mineral purposes for a period of 20 years. This duration aligns with the statutory provisions within Arizona law regarding the leasing of state lands specifically for exploration and extraction of minerals.

The rationale for this 20-year period is to provide enough time for lessees to explore and develop the mineral resources effectively. It strikes a balance between granting sufficient time for investment in resource extraction while ensuring that the resources remain available for future generations and are not indefinitely locked away. This time frame allows for proper assessment, planning, and execution of mining operations, which can often take years to develop, all while ensuring oversight and management of the state’s natural resources.

Understanding the specific leasing duration is important for both land management and economic development within the state, highlighting the balance of resource exploitation and environmental stewardship.