Final answer:
Europeans sent explorers to East Asia in the 15th century due to the need for new trade routes, desire for wealth, and religious motivations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Europeans sent explorers to East Asia in the 15th century due to several reasons. Firstly, the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans in 1453 cut off the traditional land routes to Asia, forcing Europeans to seek new sea routes to access the valuable goods of the East.
Secondly, there was a strong desire for wealth and trade as Europeans witnessed the wealth and power of the Asian countries they encountered. Lastly, religious zeal played a significant role as Catholics in particular sought to spread Christianity and retake lands from Muslims.
The closing of the overland Silk Road and the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans in 1453 motivated Europeans to seek new maritime pathways. In addition, they aimed to expand Christianity, gain access to valuable Asian goods, like spices, silk, and precious metals, and establish direct trade to enhance wealth and prestige without intermediaries.