Investigates (8)
'investigates' is the definition.
(probing is a kind of investigating)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for probes that I've seen before include "Conducts penetrating investigation" , "Investigates closely" , "Examines as dentist does decaying tooth" , "Questions or examines thoroughly" , "Investigates as dentist does tooth" .)
'investigates' is the definition.
(exploring is a kind of investigating)
This is the entire clue.
(Another definition for explores that I've seen is " Searches for the purpose of discovery".)
(Other definitions for digs that I've seen before include "In brief, archaelogical excavations" , "Enjoys" , "mines" , "Appreciates (slang)" , "Lodgings (inf)" .)