Meanders + Ox Bow Lakes

Question 1

Describe the first stage of an oxbow lake and meander forming

Answer 1

• A meander is first formed when the river channel bends, with most of the water directed to the outside of the bend

Question 2

Describe the second stage of a meander and oxbow lake forming

Answer 2

• Friction is reduced because of this which increases the speed of the river at this point

Question 3

How does friction being reduced effect the formation?

Answer 3

• The river therefore has more energy to transport through suspension, which will lead to lateral erosion taking place on the outside of the bend by corrasion

Question 4

Describe the third stage of a meander and oxbow lake forming

Answer 4

• The bank will be undercut and collapse and retreat to leave a small river cliff

Question 5

How are meanders formed?

Answer 5

• Meanders are formed because of how the shape of the river changes with lateral erosion taking place

Question 6

Describe how the ox-bow lake is finally formed

Answer 6

• From continued erosion on the outside of the bend which results in the neck of the meander becoming narrower, until usually a time of flood the river cuts across

Question 7

Describe what happens when the river cuts across

Answer 7

• The fastest current will now be flowing in the center of the river and deposition now next to the banks