Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 October 2008
Some orthogonal sets of Bessel functions of real order v are identified using the equation Δ2u = utt of the vibrating plate. Our main concern is with the L2 completeness of such sets, and we prove that the well known ‘clamped edge’ type is complete for v > -1, thus completing a result of E. Dahlberg. We also study a very closely related set and show that it needs an extra (non-Bessel) function for completeness.
Our method for proving the completeness is based on one given by H. Hochstadt in connection with Dini functions. We have found it necessary to reorganize Hoch-stadt's method and correct some errors contained in it.
Certain isolated values of v require special attention and we treat these by subjecting the Dalzell completeness criterion to a continuity argument.