Why do rivers meander?

Rivers meander due to erosion and deposition processes. Water flows faster along the outer bends of a river, eroding the bank, while it moves slower on the inner bends, depositing sediment. Over time, this creates sinuous curves. Factors like the gradient, soil type, and vegetation influence the extent of meandering. Meandering rivers are common in flat landscapes, where the flow energy is insufficient to cut straight channels. These patterns evolve continuously, shaping the surrounding land.