What is the difference between 'describe' and 'explain' questions involving figures?

Students should recognise that 'describe' and 'explain' questions require different approaches. When being asked to 'describe' a figure, the student should simply state the trends occurring in said figures rather than explaining why these patterns exist. On the other hand, when being asked to 'explain' a figure, the student must explain the reasons for such trends by using their own knowledge to link patterns to the wider geographical context.