If the statement that a passage seeks to prove or explain is a matter of common knowledge, then the passage is probably an explanation rather than an argument.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An explanation provides details or reasons for something that is already accepted as true or known, whereas an argument seeks to persuade the reader about the truth of a proposition that might not be accepted or is in dispute.

If the Statement That a Passage Seeks to Prove or Explain