Why did president Jefferson ask meriwether Lewis to travel west?

President Thomas Jefferson asked Meriwether Lewis to lead an expedition westward to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and to find a practical route to the Pacific Ocean. The mission aimed to gather scientific knowledge about the land, its resources, and its inhabitants, as well as to establish American presence and sovereignty in the region. Jefferson was particularly interested in mapping the territory and seeking potential trade routes. The expedition ultimately became known as the Lewis and Clark Expedition, significantly contributing to American exploration and expansion.