Question

in this part from the text, the word \excess\ is used to mean
a power
b cost
c usual
d extra
he also makes sure the mortar looks neat and clean by scraping off any excess before it has a chance to harden.

Explanation:

In the given context, the sentence describes scraping off material from mortar to keep it neat before it hardens. "Excess" here refers to material that is more than what is needed, which matches the definition of "extra". The other options (power, cost, usual) do not fit the context of removing surplus mortar.

Answer:

D. extra