= Non-acceleration theorem for quasi-geostrophic waves
Steady conservative small-amplitude waves have divergence-free <Eliassen–Palm flux> by <wave activity> conservation. In a balanced mean state with homogeneous impermeable boundaries and no independently forced <residual mean circulation>, this gives zero residual circulation and zero mean acceleration. The <Eulerian mean> circulation can nevertheless be nonzero because the residual circulation includes an eddy-induced correction. Wave dissipation, time-dependent wave activity or boundary forcing can invalidate the conclusion.
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