Final answer:
The major motivation for European exploration was profit, as European nations sought new trade routes and valuable resources to increase their wealth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major motivation for European exploration was profit. European nations sought to establish new trade routes and find valuable resources in foreign lands to increase their wealth. This motive is often referred to as the 'gold' aspect of exploration, along with the 'God' aspect of spreading Christianity and the 'glory' aspect of expanding their empires.