Why were european countries looking for an alternative route to asia?

is this question from a book? ?

the correct answers are: 1) lay and collect taxes and duties; 2) pay debts; 5) borrow money;   6) regulate commerce with foreign nations.

article 1, section 8. refers to the powers of congress. according to the united states constitution: “the congress shall have the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the united states.”