The elementary solution of triple integral equations and the solution of triple series equations involving associated Legendre polynomials and their application (Q1781103)

The authors develop a method for the formal solution of an important class of triple integral equations involving Bessel functions. They reduce the solution of the triple integral equations to two simultaneous Fredholm integral equations, which can be solved for any particular value of a given function in the triple integral equations. The results obtained are simpler than those of other authors in the literature and superior for the purposes of solution by iteration. In the same manner, a method is developed for solving the triple series equations involving associated Legendre polynomials. They reduce the solution of the triple series equations to a Fredholm integral equation of the second kind. Numerical results for the unknown coefficients can be obtained. Finally, the solution of triple series equations arising in an electrostatic problem concerning a thin ring shaped cap is considered.