阅读下面短文,从所给选项中选出能填入空白处的最佳选项,使短文通顺,结构完整,其中有一项是多余选项。
Zhang Qian was one of the most important explorers in Chinese history. (1) His journeys to the Western Areas changed the world by connecting China with other countries.
At that time, the Han Emperor wanted to make friends with distant kingdoms and learn about new cultures. (2) In 138 BCE, Zhang Qian set off with a small group of men, but his trip was full of dangers. He was captured(俘虏) twice and spent more than 10 years in a foreign land.
(3) After many difficulties, he finally reached the Western Areas. He brought back important information about local people, plants and animals. For example, he introduced grapes and horses to China.
Zhang Qian's trips laid the foundation(基础) for the Silk Road. After that, this route was important for trade. Traders carried silk and tea from China to the West, and brought back gold, cotton and glass. (4)
Zhang Qian's adventures helped China open up to the outside world, and created the famous Silk Road. (5)
A. He was a brave official from the Han Dynasty.
B. Besides goods, ideas and technologies also spread along the road.
C. Many traders were afraid of the long and dangerous journey on the Silk Road.
D. The emperor asked Zhang Qian to lead an adventure to find these kingdoms.
E. However, Zhang Qian never gave up and managed to escape after years of capture.
F. It was not just a trade route, but a bridge for cultural exchange between the East and the West.

Xu Xiake was a famous Chinese geographer, traveller and writer during the Ming Dynasty. He is widely known for his lifelong exploration of China’s landscapes and his detailed travel notes, which have become a valuable cultural heritage.
Born in Jiangyin, Jiangsu Province, Xu Xiake was not interested in traditional Confucian studies or official careers. Instead, he loved nature and dreamed of travelling. With his mother’s support, he began his adventures at the age of 22.
Xu Xiake chose to travel across China to explore its natural beauty and record his discoveries. Over 34 years, he visited 21 provinces, climbing mountains, exploring caves, and recording his discoveries. His journeys were often dangerous—he faced extreme weather, wild animals, and even bandits(土匪)—but he never gave up.
Xu’s greatest contribution was his scientific approach to geography. He carefully observed landforms, rivers and vegetation, correcting many ancient myths and errors. For example, he proved that the Yangtze River’s source was the Jinsha River, not the Min River as previously believed. He also studied karst landforms in South-west China, making him one of the earliest researchers in this field.
His travel notes, compiled(编写) into The Travels of Xu Xiake, are not only scientific records but also beautiful literature. They vividly describe local customs, scenery and Xu’s personal experiences. The book offers a unique view of China’s geography and culture during the Ming Dynasty.
Xu Xiake’s legacy(遗产) inspires people today. His spirit of adventure, love for nature, and dedication(奉献) to learning remind us to explore the world with an open mind.
回答下面5个问题,每题答案不超过6个词。
1. Where was Xu Xiake born?

2. Who supported Xu Xiake’s adventures at first?

3. How long did Xu Xiake spend on his journeys?

4. What is The Travels of Xu Xiake mainly about?

5. Why is Xu Xiake still remembered today in your opinion?