First, we begin with a meander.
The meander has become very curved, because of erosion.

Due to hydraulic action, abrasion and erosion, the space between the curves of the meander ( known as the neck ) is becoming narrower.

Stage 1

Stage Two

Stage Three

Stage Four

Ox-Bow Lakes

During a flood, the neck of the river has been broken by the flood water. Silt and clay have built up and left the channel abandoned.

The river continues on its new pathway and the channel is fully separated. An Ox-bow lake has now been formed.