Formation of an Ox-Bow Lake

1. The fastest flow on a meander is found on the outside of the bend.

This fast flowing water will erode the outside of the bend through
hydraulic action and abrasion. Deposition occurs on the inside of the
bend because the water is shallower and flowing at a much slower rate.

2. With continual erosion on the outside of the bend and deposition on

the inside of the bend, the ends of the meander bend become closer.

3. Eventually, due to the narrowing of the neck, the two outer bends
meet and the river cuts through the neck of the meander, usually at
times of flood.

4. Deposition gradually seals off the old meander bend forming a new
straighter river channel. The old meander bend is left isolated from
the main channel as an ox-bow lake. Gradually over time the ox-bow
lake will dry up, forming a meander scar.